Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (
DXA, previously
DEXA) is a means of measuring
bone mineral density (BMD). Two
X-ray beams, with different
energy levels, are aimed at the patient's
bones. When
soft tissue absorption is subtracted out, the
BMD can be determined from the absorption of each beam by bone. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is the most widely used and most thoroughly studied bone density measurement technology.