DEXA
Private DEXA Scan — £215
DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is the gold-standard scan for measuring bone mineral density. It's used to diagnose osteoporosis, assess fracture risk, and monitor bone health over time.
Performed at our CQC-registered clinic, with reporting by a GMC-registered consultant radiologist.
All DEXA scans require prior clinical justification. Before booking, you'll have a GP Pre-Test Review (£25, 10-min phone call) so a doctor can confirm the scan is clinically appropriate for you. This is a legal requirement under IR(ME)R 2017.
Book GP Pre-Test Review — £25
What's included — £215
DEXA scan of the lumbar spine and both hips (standard sites for osteoporosis assessment)
T-score and Z-score reporting against WHO diagnostic criteria
FRAX 10-year fracture risk assessment (where clinically appropriate)
Written report by a consultant radiologist
Results shared with you and (with your consent) your GP
Who DEXA is for
DEXA may be recommended if you:
Are post-menopausal, particularly with risk factors for osteoporosis
Are a man over 50 with risk factors (family history, low body weight, long-term steroid use)
Have had a fragility fracture (a fracture from a fall at standing height or less)
Take long-term corticosteroids or other medication affecting bone density
Have a medical condition associated with bone loss (e.g. coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, hyperthyroidism, early menopause)
Want to monitor response to osteoporosis treatment
Your suitability and clinical need will be confirmed at the Pre-Test Review.
What to expect on the day
The scan takes around 15–20 minutes
You'll lie flat on a padded table while the scanner arm passes over you
No injections, no enclosed space, no fasting required
You can wear loose clothing without metal zips or buttons; you may not need to change
You can eat and drink normally before and after
Important information before booking
Radiation: DEXA uses a very low dose of ionising radiation — significantly lower than a standard chest X-ray. Your clinician will discuss this at the Pre-Test Review.
Pregnancy: DEXA is not performed in pregnancy. Please tell us if you are, or might be, pregnant.
Recent contrast or nuclear medicine studies: if you've had a barium study, CT with contrast, or nuclear medicine scan in the last week, please tell us — it can affect DEXA accuracy.
Body weight: our scanner has a maximum weight limit of [X] kg / [X] lbs. Please let us know in advance if this may apply.
Not a screening service: DEXA is offered on the basis of clinical need, not as a general health check.
Results: reports are typically available within [X] working days. Urgent findings are communicated promptly.
About our service
We are registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
