DEXA (Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry)
The GE Lunar Prodigy Encore Dexa scanner measures both soft tissue composition (% fat and %fat-free mass) and the bone mineral density of the spine, femoral neck, forearm, or whole body. Total body scans take just 6-10 minutes and the scanner can accommodate subjects who weigh up to 350 pounds. In a recent development, the Prodigy Encore software has been upgraded to measure visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Since the amount of VAT in the abdomen is predictive of metabolic syndrome and its sequelae, the GE Lunar Prodigy Encore scanner delivers a low cost, low dose, and automated alternative to measuring VAT when compared with computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
