Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is used to estimate bone density and soft tissue composition. Bone density as a fraction of the fat free mass can be distinguished and quantitated using this method.
The most complete and accurate imaging technique for measuring bone density. DEXA is a painless procedure that uses very small amounts of radiation and takes only about 15 minutes. It is commonly used to detect a case of osteoporosis that is mild or asymptomatic or to assess the bones after a bone fracture has occurred. DEXA also offers physicians a baseline for treatment and is used during ongoing medical care to assess the response to treatment for osteoporosis.
This method for evaluating body composition employs a sequence of cross-sectional scans from cranium to feet, utilizing photon beams to calculate levels of adipose tissue.
In the realm of body composition analysis, there exists a direct method of assessing body fat known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). This technique involves scanning the patient using two X-ray beams with different energy levels. Although DXA is primarily used to measure bone mineral density, it is worth noting that it is not the primary method for determining the percentage of body fat. Instead, DXA provides valuable insights into the density and health of bones, contributing to the assessment and diagnosis of conditions related to bone density rather than specifically focusing on body fat percentage.