A DEXA scan of the femur is a low‑dose X‑ray test that measures bone mineral density at the hip, usually the femoral neck. It helps diagnose osteoporosis, estimate fracture risk, and monitor treatment. The quick, painless exam requires lying still while the scanner passes over the hip. Results report T‑scores/Z‑scores to guide clinical decisions. Radiation exposure is minimal.

DEXA scans commonly measure bone density at three sites: the lumbar spine (usually L1–L4), the proximal femur (hip — femoral neck and total hip), and the distal forearm (radius/ulna). Spine and hip assessments are primary for diagnosing osteoporosis; the forearm is used when hip or spine cannot be measured or in conditions like hyperparathyroidism.

A DEXA (dual‑energy X‑ray absorptiometry) scan measures bone mineral density to diagnose osteoporosis and osteopenia, estimate fracture risk, and monitor bone loss or response to treatment. It's quick, uses low radiation, and is often recommended for postmenopausal women, older men, long‑term steroid users, or people with conditions affecting bone health. Results guide treatment and prevention to reduce fracture risk.

DEXA scans measure bone mineral density and are not designed to diagnose most fractures. However, many modern DEXA machines include vertebral fracture assessment (VFA), which can detect some spinal compression fractures. For acute or non-vertebral fractures, X-ray, CT, or MRI are more accurate. If a fracture is suspected or symptoms persist, get targeted imaging and clinical assessment.

Disadvantages of a DEXA scan include small but cumulative ionizing radiation (so avoided in pregnancy), limited accuracy in very obese or very tall patients and when spinal degenerative changes or vascular calcifications are present, inability to assess bone quality or microarchitecture (only bone density), variability between machines/techniques, table weight limits, and limited availability and cost in some settings.

For a DEXA scan: wear loose, metal-free clothing and remove jewelry; avoid calcium supplements for 24–48 hours; eat and take medications as usual; tell staff if you might be pregnant or recently had contrast or barium studies; bring a list of medicines and prior bone-density reports; arrive a little early and follow staff instructions to lie still during the quick, painless scan.