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When you need a look inside your body, doctors have several imaging tools available. Medical diagnostics like CT scans, X-rays, and DEXA scans help your doctor understand your health. While each uses a form of radiation to create images, they serve very different functions. Here is more information to help you understand why your provider might choose one over another:
Purpose of DEXA Scans
A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan measures bone mineral density, and this test is a standard for diagnosing osteoporosis. The procedure uses two low-dose X-ray beams, each with a different energy level. While one beam is mainly absorbed by soft tissue, the other is primarily absorbed by bone.
Based on the difference between the two, the machine calculates your bone density. This information tells your doctor about your risk of fractures. Doctors also use DEXA scans to track changes in bone health over time, and this is used during treatment for bone loss.
Purpose of X-rays
A traditional X-ray is a standard imaging test used for many purposes. It creates two-dimensional images of the body’s internal structures. Dense materials like bone absorb radiation and appear white on the image, while softer tissues allow it to pass through, appearing in shades of gray.
Doctors frequently use X-rays to detect bone fractures or dislocations. They also look for signs of arthritis in joints. Beyond bones, X-rays help identify certain lung conditions, such as pneumonia. They are also used to locate foreign objects that have been swallowed.
Because an X-ray provides a quick and clear picture of bones, it is typically the first choice for evaluating injuries. The process is fast and widely available in clinics and hospitals. It provides the specific information needed for many initial diagnoses.
Choice of Diagnostics
The choice between an X-ray, DEXA, or CT scan depends on the medical question. To provide the clearest view of the area in question, your provider will select the most appropriate test. A CT scan, which creates detailed cross-sectional images, might be used for complex fractures or to examine soft tissues and organs.
Your doctor’s selection is based on your specific symptoms and what they need to see. These include:
- An X-ray is used for a suspected broken arm.
- A DEXA scan is used to check for osteoporosis.
- A CT scan is used to view internal organ injuries.
Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) is another diagnostic tool that provides highly detailed images of soft tissues. It is used to examine the brain, spinal cord, or muscles and does not involve radiation, unlike an X-ray or CT scan. While the process can take longer than other imaging methods, the level of detail an MRI provides is invaluable for diagnosing complex conditions.
Schedule a CT Scan Today
Understanding the different types of diagnostic imaging helps clarify your healthcare plan. Each tool gives your doctor a unique perspective on your health. A CT scan, in particular, offers a detailed view that other scans may not provide. If you have questions about your diagnostic needs, speak with your healthcare provider to get more information. Contact a radiology clinic to schedule diagnostics today.
