Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) measures bone density and body composition, i.e. fat mass and fat-free mass, which is an important aspect of the assessment of nutritional status.
The DEXA technique has been validated for research use against gold standard methods in a number of populations (aged, pediatric, obesity) and it is widely accepted as a reference method in the research setting.
Determination of body composition by DEXA relies on the attenuation of a photon beam. After filtration, an x-ray source emits two photon energy peaks and tissues can be differentiated because of different absorption of the two photon energies. Low density material will allow more photons to pass through and high density material (ie bone) will transmit fewer photons.
Flinders DEXA Research Facility
The acquisition of a GE Lunar Prodigy dual energy X-ray absorptiometer was possible in May 2007 as a result of a successful FU equipment grant and significant financial contributions from the Division of Medicine, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics and the School of Nursing and Midwifery. This scanner uses a fan beam to collect data. The use of an array of detectors allows a single pass along the length of the scan, which results in a much faster scan. A typical full body scan will take only around 5 minutes, with an effective radiation dose of less than 0.5µSv.
Conveniently located in Flinders Medical Centre, this research dedicated equipment has the capacity to measure adults up to 158kg as well as young children. In addition to the advantage of a purely research dedicated focus, this equipment will provide opportunities for research training which would not previously have been available and is bound to add considerable value to any current or future research investigations. Weekend availability and access to trained technicians, licensed to use the DEXA, will further enhance the usefulness of this equipment in the research setting.
Collaborative Opportunities
The joint funding of this DEXA equipment by the university, and academics from a number of departments across the Faculty of Health Science, affords investigators increased opportunities to collaborate in research across departments.
Professor Paddy Phillips is Head of the Department of Medicine and co-leader of the Flinders University Clinical Change and Health Care Research ASRI. His research interests include cardiovascular disease and health services research. paddy.phillips@flinders.edu.au
Dr Michelle Miller is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, and continues to pursue research in her field of interest, rehabilitation and aged care. michelle.miller@flinders.edu.au
Professor Lynne Cobiac was appointed Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics in January 2007 and has diverse research interests including nutrigenomics and colorectal cancer. lynne.cobiac@flinders.edu.au
Professor Campbell Thompson is Director of General Medicine at FMC, a department with a range of active research interests including research in the area of obesity, and insulin resistance. campbell.thompson@fmc.sa.gov.au
Paul Bennett is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Nursing and Midwifery, and was presented with the award of Research Nurse of the Year in 2006. His research interests are in the area of measures of dialysis quality and patient care. paul.bennett@flinders.edu.au
Dr Anthea Magarey is a Research Fellow in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics with a strong interest in child and adolescent health, particularly with reference to the role of diet in the prevention of adult disease. anthea.magarey@flinders.edu.au
Request a quote
The DEXA is available at very competitive prices with the added advantage of being available on-site at Flinders Medical Centre. For more information contact Dr Michelle Miller ( michelle.miller@flinders.edu.au )
To organise a quote for research scans complete and submit the online application form available here.
