Patient Information

What to Expect During a DEXA Scan

Your guide to bone health at Domain Radiology
A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is one of the most accurate ways to measure bone density and assess your risk of osteoporosis or fractures. At Domain Radiology, we make the process simple, comfortable, and informative. Here’s what you can expect during your visit.

What Is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA scan is a non-invasive imaging test that measures bone mineral density (BMD). It uses low-dose X-rays to evaluate the strength of your bones—typically in the hip, spine, and sometimes forearm. The scan helps detect osteoporosis, monitor bone health, and guide treatment decisions.

How Long Does It Take?
The scan takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes. It’s quick, painless, and doesn’t involve any needles or contrast dyes.

What Should I Wear?

• Loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or belts
• Avoid jewellery or accessories near the scan area
• You may be asked to change into a gown if needed

Do I Need to Prepare?

• No fasting required—you can eat and drink normally
• Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before your scan
• Let us know if you’ve had recent imaging with barium or contrast agents

What Happens During the Scan?

1. You’ll lie flat on a padded table
2. A scanning arm will move slowly over your body
3. The machine uses two X-ray beams to measure bone density
4. You’ll feel nothing during the scan—it’s completely painless

When Will I Get My Results?
Your scan will be reviewed by a specialist radiologist, and results will be sent to your referring doctor within a few days. The report includes your T-score and Z-score, which help assess your bone health.

Why Is a DEXA Scan Important?

• Detects osteopenia or osteoporosis early
• Monitors bone loss over time
• Assesses fracture risk
• Helps guide treatment plans

Who Should Consider a DEXA Scan?

• Women over 65 and men over 70
• Postmenopausal women with risk factors
• Individuals with a history of fractures
• People on long-term steroid therapy
• Those with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid disorders

Why Choose Domain Radiology?
At Domain Radiology, we combine advanced imaging technology with a patient-first approach. Our experienced team ensures your DEXA scan is performed with precision, care, and comfort—so you can take charge of your bone health with confidence.

An X-ray is a quick, painless imaging test that uses low-dose radiation to create pictures of the inside of your body. It’s commonly used to examine bones, lungs, joints, and soft tissues, helping doctors diagnose fractures, infections, and other conditions.

Does an X-ray Use Radiation?
Yes—but the amount is very small. X-rays use ionising radiation, which can alter cells in high doses. However, the doses used in medical imaging are carefully controlled and kept as low as reasonably achievable (the ALARA principle) to minimise any risk.

How Do We Keep You Safe?

• At Domain Radiology, we follow strict safety protocols to ensure your exposure is minimal:
• Modern equipment with advanced dose-reduction technology
• Highly trained radiographers who tailor each scan to your needs
• Protective shielding (like lead aprons) when appropriate
• Only scanning when medically necessary

What About Children and Pregnant Patients?
Extra care is taken with children and pregnant patients, as they are more sensitive to radiation. In many cases, alternative imaging methods like ultrasound or MRI may be recommended. If an X-ray is necessary, we use the lowest possible dose and appropriate shielding.

Should I Be Worried?
For most patients, the benefits of an X-ray far outweigh the minimal risks. The information gained from an X-ray can be critical for diagnosis and treatment. If you have concerns, our team is always happy to explain the procedure and answer your questions.

Why Choose Domain Radiology?
We combine state-of-the-art technology with a patient-first approach. Our radiographers are trained to deliver safe, accurate imaging while keeping you informed and comfortable throughout the process.

Have Questions About Your X-ray?
Contact our friendly team at Domain Radiology. We’re here to guide you through your imaging journey with clarity, care, and confidence.

How to Prepare for Your Ultrasound

Helpful tips from Domain Radiology to ensure a smooth scan
Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging technique used to examine organs, tissues, and blood flow. Whether you’re coming in for a routine scan or a more specialised study, knowing how to prepare can help ensure accurate results and a comfortable experience. Here’s everything you need to know before your appointment at Domain Radiology.

General Preparation Guidelines
Most ultrasounds require little preparation, but some scans do have specific instructions. Always follow the advice given when booking your appointment. If you’re unsure, our team is happy to assist.

Abdominal & Pelvic Ultrasound Preparation:

• Drink water: You may be asked to drink 1 litre of water an hour before your appointment and not empty your bladder. A full bladder helps improve image quality for pelvic organs.
• Fasting: For abdominal scans, you may need to fast for 6 hours prior to your appointment. This reduces gas in the bowel, which can interfere with imaging.

Avoid:

• Eating or drinking anything other than water during the fasting period
• Carbonated drinks, chewing gum, or smoking before the scan

Pregnancy Ultrasound

Early pregnancy (up to 12 weeks):

• Drink 500–750ml of water about an hour before your scan
• Do not empty your bladder until after the scan

Later pregnancy (after 12 weeks):

• No specific preparation is usually required
• Wear comfortable clothing for easy access to your abdomen

Musculoskeletal & Vascular Ultrasound Preparation:

• No fasting or bladder preparation required
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to allow easy access to the area being scanned
• You may be asked to remove jewellery or accessories near the scan site

Renal & Bladder Ultrasound Preparation:

• Drink 1 litre of water one hour before your scan
• Do not empty your bladder until after the scan
• No fasting required unless combined with an abdominal scan

Thyroid, Breast & Soft Tissue Ultrasound Preparation:

• No special preparation required
• Avoid applying lotions, powders, or deodorants to the area being scanned
• Wear clothing that allows easy access to the neck, chest, or affected area

What to Bring

• Your referral form (if not already sent to us)
• Medicare card and any relevant health insurance details
• A list of current medications
• Previous imaging results, if applicable

Questions or Concerns?
If you’re unsure about your scan type or preparation instructions, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team. We’re here to ensure your experience is smooth, informative, and stress-free.

Book Your Ultrasound Today
Domain Radiology offers expert imaging services with a patient-first approach.
Call us or book online to schedule your ultrasound and take the next step in your healthcare journey.