Washington Imaging Services: DEXA also called bone density testing in Bellevue and Issaquah, close to Seattle.

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Body Composition (DEXA)
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Body Composition (DEXA)

Body composition measurement or fat analysis using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is a quick, painless procedure that provides accurate and precise measurements of bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition. Findings include bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density, lean tissue mass, fat tissue mass and %fat results.

A DEXA body composition analysis uses very low dose x-rays. The radiation exposure level (0.02mCi) is significantly below (1/160,00th) the level that is recommended for your lifetime.

This screening exam is typically not reimbursed by insurance companies. Washington Imaging Services offers our body composition analysis at a reduced cash price of $99. Payment for the exam is due at the time of your body scan appointment.

To schedule a DEXA body composition analysis, call 425-688-0100. The scheduler will ask you to provide the name of your referring physician.

DEXA Exam Guidelines

Preparation

Prior to your scheduled appointment, WIS will call you to discuss specific instructions, review your health and insurance information and answer any questions.
For your convenience, print out and complete the appropriate Patient Forms, including Patient Registration and Patient History. Bring them with you to your appointment.
Do not take calcium supplements 8 hours prior to your exam or on the day of your scan.
Leave your valuables at home. All jewelry and any metal objects must be removed prior to the exam.
Wear comfortable clothing without metal hooks, buttons or zippers. Pants with an elastic waistband are recommended.
Please notify the technologist if you are pregnant or could be pregnant.
Let us know if there is any metal in the part of the body being imaged, such as spinal fusion rods or a hip prosthesis.
DEXA studies cannot be scheduled within one week following any contrast study such as nuclear medicine, barium enema, UGI, IVP, etc.
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your exam.

What to Expect During the Exam

Allow approximately 15 to 30 minutes for the procedure.
You will be asked to lie on your back on a padded scanning bed and breathe normally. A scanner will pass over one area of your skeleton—your lower spine or hip—as a dual energy beam of low dose x-ray passes through your body and is measured by a detector. You will not feel anything during the exam.
The technologist will reposition your arms and legs as needed, and a scan of a second skeletal area will be taken.
DEXA technology uses low dose x-rays of two different energy levels, to measure lean tissue mass and total and regional body fat as well as bone density.

What to Expect After the Exam

You may leave as soon as the exam is completed.
Your referring physician will receive a report and pictures detailing the findings of your exam within 48 hours. You should contact your doctor to discuss the results.

For more information on the DEXA body composition/fat analysis exam, see the articles page.

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