Measure bone density
DEXA can detect reductions in bone mineral density that are not reliably assessed using an ordinary X-ray.
DEXA Bone Density · Malta
DEXA Scan (Bone Density Scan)
A DEXA (DXA) scan measures bone mineral density using a very low dose of X-rays. At St Mary's Medical Clinic in Mosta, bone density scanning is performed using our Hologic Horizon® DXA system to help assess bone health, osteoporosis and fracture risk.
ScanDEXA / DXA
Price€80
TimeUsually 15–30 min
LocationMosta, Malta
What is a DEXA scan?
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measures bone mineral density. It is commonly used to investigate osteoporosis and help assess future fracture risk. Measurements are usually taken at clinically relevant sites such as the hip and spine.
Identify low bone density
The result can help determine whether bone density is within the expected range or at levels associated with osteopenia or osteoporosis.
Follow bone health over time
When clinically appropriate, repeat measurements can help your healthcare professional monitor changes in bone density.
Our DEXA technology
Hologic Horizon® DXA System
Our radiology department uses the Hologic Horizon® DXA system for bone mineral density examinations. DEXA uses a low dose of ionising radiation and the examination is non-invasive.
Bone density measurementDesigned for DXA bone mineral density assessment.
Low-dose X-rayDEXA uses substantially less radiation than many conventional X-ray examinations.
Open examinationYou lie on an open scanning table while the scanner passes over the area being measured.
Mosta radiology departmentYour examination is performed at St Mary's Medical Clinic.
Who should have a bone density scan?
DEXA is particularly useful when age, medical history, medication or other risk factors increase concern about osteoporosis or fracture risk. Whether you should be tested, and how often, should be based on your individual clinical circumstances.
Women aged 65+
Major preventive-care guidance recommends osteoporosis screening for women aged 65 and over.
Postmenopausal women at increased risk
Testing may be appropriate before 65 where clinical risk factors indicate increased osteoporosis or fracture risk.
When your clinician recommends it
Examples include a fragility fracture, long-term glucocorticoid use, certain conditions associated with bone loss, early menopause or other significant osteoporosis risk factors.
Screening recommendations are not identical for every population. For example, current USPSTF guidance finds insufficient evidence to recommend routine population screening for all men. A clinician can advise based on age and individual risk factors.
What happens during a DEXA scan
The examination is simple and non-invasive. There is usually no special preparation, although clothing or objects containing metal may need to be removed because they can interfere with the measurement.
Prepare for the scan
Wear comfortable clothing without metal fasteners where possible. Tell the radiographer if you are or may be pregnant and mention any recent relevant imaging or procedures.
Lie on the scanning table
You lie on your back while the scanner measures the required areas. You will need to remain still while measurements are acquired.
No routine recovery
DEXA does not normally require recovery time. The findings can then be considered by the healthcare professional managing your bone health.
Understanding your bone density results
A bone density report provides measurements that your healthcare professional interprets in the context of your age, clinical history and fracture risk.
T-score
A T-score compares your bone mineral density with that of a healthy young adult reference population. It is commonly used when assessing bone density in postmenopausal women and older adults.
Z-score
A Z-score compares bone density with what is expected for someone of a similar age and sex. The appropriate interpretation depends on the patient and clinical context.
A DEXA result should not be interpreted in isolation. If low bone density is found, your clinician may consider your overall fracture risk, medical history and whether further assessment or treatment is appropriate.
How much does a DEXA scan cost?
DEXA · Bone Density
€80Bone Density Scan
Performed within our radiology department.
Our radiographer
Meet your DEXA radiographer
Mr Malcolm Mallia
Radiographer
Mr Malcolm Mallia is a radiographer within the St Mary's Clinic radiology department and supports diagnostic imaging examinations, including bone density scanning, at our Mosta clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions about DEXA Bone Density Scans
How much does a DEXA scan cost in Malta?
A DEXA bone density scan at St Mary's Medical Clinic is €80. The examination is performed within our radiology department in Mosta using the Hologic Horizon® DXA system, and usually takes around 15–30 minutes.
How long does a bone density scan take?
A DEXA bone density examination usually takes around 15–30 minutes. Allow time for registration as well as the scan itself.
Does a DEXA scan hurt?
No. The scan itself is non-invasive and painless. You lie still on the scanning table while the required measurements are taken.
Does a DEXA scan use radiation?
Yes. DEXA uses a very low dose of ionising radiation. Tell the clinic before your appointment if you are or may be pregnant.
Do I need to prepare?
There is usually no special preparation. Wear clothing without metal fasteners where possible, as metal can interfere with the measurement. Follow any specific instructions given when your appointment is booked.
How often should DEXA be repeated?
There is no single interval that is right for everyone. Repeat testing depends on your initial result, age, risk factors, treatment and the reason for monitoring. Your healthcare professional should advise the appropriate interval.
Can DEXA diagnose osteoporosis?
Bone mineral density measured by central DXA is an important part of osteoporosis assessment. The result should be interpreted together with your clinical history and fracture risk by an appropriate healthcare professional.
What does a DEXA scan show?
A DEXA scan measures bone mineral density at clinically relevant sites such as the hip and spine. The report gives a T-score, which compares your bone density with a healthy young adult reference population, and a Z-score, which compares it with what is expected for someone of a similar age and sex. Together these show whether bone density is within the expected range or at levels associated with osteopenia or osteoporosis.
What is the difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis?
Both describe bone density that is lower than the expected range, and they differ by degree. Osteopenia means bone density is reduced but not low enough to be classed as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis means bone density is low enough that bones are more fragile and more likely to break. A T-score is what places a result in one category or the other, and your clinician interprets it alongside your medical history and fracture risk.
Book a DEXA scan in Mosta
St Mary's Medical Clinic · 9/11 Triq il-Barrieri, Mosta MST 3250, Malta · Mon–Fri 8:00am–6:00pm · Sat 8:00am–1:00pm