What is a Body Composition Scan?
A Body Composition Scan uses the same technology as Bone Densitometry (DEXA), which involves scanning the entire body with an ultra-low dose of dual-energy X-Rays, allowing accurate analysis and breakdown of lean muscle mass, body fat and bone mass.
At Panorama Radiology Specialists, we use the most advanced low dose DEXA technology. Body Composition Scans are quick and non-invasive, and produce colour-mapped images of the entire body showing body composition with regional analysis of the trunk, arms and legs to measure body composition and to monitor changes in composition over time.
Clinical Uses
Body composition scanning may be used to accurately measure and monitor changes in body composition in a variety of exercise, weight loss and therapeutic programs –
- Exercise Programs for amateur and elite athletes
- Weight loss programs including dietary regimes
- Bariatric Surgery – measuring pre-operative baseline, and post-operative progress
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Medical conditions resulting in weight loss, including oncology patients and gastrointestinal disorders such as coeliac disease and Crohn’s disease.
Safety
Pregnancy
Although the radiation dose used for a Body Composition DEXA scan is tiny, and significantly lower than a conventional X-Ray, the test is generally not recommended for pregnant patients.
Please advise our staff if you are pregnant or think you might be.
What Happens During My Body Composition Scan Appointment?
Before undergoing a body composition scan in our Benowa Gold Coast clinic, you will be asked to complete a preliminary questionnaire that includes information about your health, medical and surgical history. Please be mindful of documenting any prior spinal or hip replacement surgery, as these may affect the results or scan technique. You should avoid taking Calcium supplements for 24 hours prior to your procedure.
Our staff may ask you to change into a gown for your scan.
Body Composition Scan Fees
There is currently no Medicare rebate available for Body Composition scanning, so we do charge a modest out-of-pocket fee for this test. Please ask our friendly reception team for details.
Body Composition Scan Results
Your Body Composition Scan results and images will be promptly electronically delivered to your referrer, typically the same day.
You will need to return to see your referrer to obtain and discuss your results.