| Technology |
Uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density |
Uses ultrasound signals and advanced analysis |
| Radiation |
Small dose of ionising radiation |
No radiation – safe for repeat use |
| Measures |
Bone Mineral Density (BMD) only |
BMD and Fragility Score (bone quality + fracture risk) |
| Accuracy |
May be less accurate in spinal degeneration, arthritis, or obesity |
Less affected by calcifications or body size – improves reliability |
| Location of Scan |
Typically hip and lumbar spine |
Hip and lumbar spine (same sites as DXA) |
| Setting |
Large hospital-based machine |
Portable, clinic-based, quick to perform |
| Scan Time |
10–20 minutes |
Around 10 minutes |
| Result Output |
T-score and Z-score |
T-score, Z-score, plus Fragility Score |
| Safety |
Limited frequency due to radiation exposure |
Can be repeated frequently for monitoring |
