Evaluation of Repeat Scan Rates and Service Utilization Patterns in DXA Examinations: A Retrospective Analysis of 35,827 Scans

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the utilization patterns of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans performed over a three-year period at University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Sincan Training and Research Hospital by evaluating the distribution of scan types, repeat intervals, and utilization characteristics across diagnostic groups. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 35,827 DXA scans from 17,857 unique patients performed between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2024. Demographic data, scan types, request-to-scan intervals, and ICD-10 diagnostic codes were evaluated. Repeat scans were classified by time interval. Descriptive statistics and intergroup comparisons were performed. Results: The mean patient age was 61 years (interquartile range: 52-70), and 78% were female. Lumbar spine scans were the most frequent (52%), followed by femoral (33%) and whole-body scans (15%). At least one repeat scan was observed in 22% of patients. Among repeats, 2.8% were technical repeats (within 7 days), 14.4% occurred within the first year, and 12.2% after ≥2 years. Repeat rates were significantly higher in patients with osteoporosis (M81) and postmenopausal status (N95) compared to other groups (p