DEXA Scans Are Now Available at TVCR

For years, TVCR has proudly served the community as a clinical research organization, taking a compassionate, people-first approach to improving health outcomes. If you've participated in one of our trials, you know the level of precision and care that goes into everything we do. That same standard is now available outside the trial setting with our DEXA scanning service at our Weslaco location, open to anyone in the community.

What Is a DEXA Scan?

DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the clinical gold standard for measuring bone mineral density and body composition. Unlike older imaging technologies, modern DEXA scanners are open, low-profile machines with no tubes or enclosed spaces. You simply lie flat on a padded table while the scanner arm passes over you. The scan is completely painless, non-invasive, and requires no injections or contrast of any kind.

As the name implies, DEXA uses low-dose X-rays to capture its measurements. The radiation exposure is minimal, significantly less than a standard chest X-ray. The entire appointment, from check-in to results, is designed to fit into your day without disruption. The scan takes 15 to 20 minutes and you'll receive your results before you leave.

What It Measures

A single scan can give you a precise picture of your bone health, body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, and visceral fat levels. This information helps identify trends that may impact long-term health, from bone strength to how fat is distributed in the body. This is data your annual physical doesn't capture, and for many people, it's the piece their annual checkup was missing.

Who Should Get One

DEXA scans are valuable for adults at nearly any age and stage of life. If you have a family history of osteoporosis, are working toward specific fitness or weight goals, or simply want a more complete baseline than standard labs provide, a DEXA scan is worth your time. It's a short appointment that can help you make informed health decisions.

How to Prepare

Preparing for a DEXA scan is simple.

Key Preparation Checklist

• Avoid Calcium: Do not take calcium supplements for 24–48 hours before, as they can interfere with results.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing, preferably without zippers, metal buttons, belt buckles, or metal clips.
• Medical History: Let the doctor know if you’ve recently had a barium exam, CT scan, or received injections of contrast dye (wait 1–2 weeks).
• Pregnancy: Inform the facility if there is a possibility you are pregnant.
• Metal Items: Leave jewelry, glasses, watches, and items with metal at home.

How to Get Started

DEXA scanning is one more way Texas Valley Clinical Research is putting the tools of precise, research-grade medicine within reach. We offer three scan options to best fit your needs, all available as a cash-pay service with no insurance or physician referral required. If you're ready to get a clearer picture of your health, we're ready to help. Schedule your DEXA scan today.