DEXA bone density scan review
Specialist interpretation of DEXA bone density scan results, T-scores and fracture risk to help patients understand what their results mean and what should happen next.
A DEXA scan is useful, but it is only one part of the picture. A specialist review looks at your scan alongside fracture history, risk factors, blood tests, medication and overall bone health.
What is a DEXA bone density scan review?
A DEXA scan measures bone density and helps identify whether bones are within the expected range, show osteopenia or meet criteria for osteoporosis. The result can help guide fracture risk assessment and treatment planning.
Understanding your results
A specialist review can explain your T-score, Z-score, scan sites, overall pattern and how the result relates to your age, medical history and fracture risk.
Putting the scan in context
DEXA results are most useful when interpreted alongside previous fractures, family history, medication use, blood tests, falls risk and other clinical factors.
When scan results need specialist interpretation
Some DEXA reports are straightforward, but others need a more careful review, especially when symptoms, fractures or risk factors do not match the scan result.
Common reasons for review
- You have been told you have osteoporosis or osteopenia
- Your result is borderline or difficult to interpret
- You have had a fracture despite only mild bone loss
- You are unsure whether medication is needed
- You want a specialist explanation of your risk
Additional factors to consider
- Previous fragility fractures
- Long-term steroid or medication use
- Early menopause or hormone-related risk
- Vitamin D, calcium or thyroid/parathyroid issues
- Changes between current and previous DEXA scans
What the review may include
The aim is to help you understand the scan result clearly and decide whether further investigation, monitoring or treatment is needed.
Your DEXA report is reviewed, including T-scores, Z-scores and the areas scanned.
Your scan result is interpreted alongside fracture history and wider clinical risk factors.
Blood tests or additional imaging may be recommended if the result suggests an underlying cause.
You receive clear advice about monitoring, lifestyle support and treatment options where appropriate.
What may happen after a DEXA review?
The next step depends on your scan result, fracture risk and wider health profile.
If fracture risk is low
- Advice on calcium, vitamin D and diet
- Exercise and strengthening guidance
- Falls prevention where relevant
- Monitoring plan and repeat scan timing
- Review of lifestyle and medication risk factors
If fracture risk is higher
- Medication options may be discussed
- Injection or infusion treatments may be considered
- Further blood tests may be needed
- Previous fractures may change treatment decisions
- Follow-up and repeat monitoring may be recommended
DEXA scan review questions
Common questions about DEXA scan interpretation and what your bone density result may mean.
Does a DEXA scan diagnose osteoporosis?
A DEXA scan can show whether bone density is in the osteoporosis range, but treatment decisions also depend on fracture history and other risk factors.
What is a T-score?
A T-score compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult. It is one of the main figures used when assessing osteoporosis.
Can a normal scan still mean fracture risk?
Sometimes. Fracture risk is influenced by more than bone density alone, including falls risk, age, medications and previous fractures.
Should I repeat my DEXA scan?
Repeat scanning depends on your result, treatment plan and clinical risk. Professor Keen can advise on appropriate monitoring intervals.
Book a DEXA scan review consultation
If you have had a DEXA scan and would like specialist advice about your result, fracture risk or treatment options, please contact the office to arrange a consultation.
Contact details
For private appointments and general enquiries, please contact Professor Keen's office.