Densitometers

Bone tissue densitometry refers to special scanning methods used to visualize bone structure and analyze bone mineral density. Unlike other X-ray techniques, densitometry emphasizes bone quantification, has shorter scan times and accurate results, allowing physicians to control bone loss in patients. 

What does bone densitometry include?

The X-ray bone densitometer works on the principle of irradiating the patient with small portions of ionizing radiation, which makes it possible to create an image of the inside of the body. The bones absorb some of this radiation, and the amount absorbed reflects the density of the bones that can be observed in the image.

Densitometers or densitometric — scanners are devices used to perform these measurements. They come in many types, including transmittance densitometers and reflection densitometers. Transmission densitometers measure the amount of light passing through an object, and reflection densitometers measure the amount of light reflected from the object. 

Why is densitometry performed?

An X-ray densitometer is used to diagnose and monitor progress in the treatment of osteoporosis. Bone is constantly destroyed and restored by the body. As a person gets older, the bone mass is destroyed more than it is formed. Different conditions or circumstances can increase the rate of this failure. The result of this is osteoporosis —, a condition in which the hollow spaces in the bones become wider and the bones become brittle. A bone densitometer is also used in the diagnosis and control of the treatment of osteopenia and other diseases that affect bone strength and density.

Which patients is this test useful for?

In those patients who are at higher risk of «bone loss». These could be women going through menopause, patients with a likely personal or family history of osteoporotic fracture, patients with increased bone loss as a result of endocrine diseases.

What a densitometer looks like and works

A bone densitometer typically consists of a scanning unit and a computer system for data analysis and image processing. The patient lies on the table or stands in a given position, while the scanning unit emits the necessary energy (X-rays) and collects appropriate measurements. The obtained data is then processed to obtain bone density results, usually presented as T-scores or Z-scores, which compare the mineral density of the patient's bones with standard scores.

Bone densitometers can focus on specific areas of the skeleton, such as the thigh, spine, or forearm, or provide a whole body score. The choice of scanning method and skeletal site depends on the specific clinical requirements and the type of bone assessment required.

Bone densitometry — is a safe, painless and non-invasive procedure. This uses very low levels of radiation, significantly less than traditional X-ray studies. Benefits of bone densitometry include early detection of bone loss, monitoring of treatment effectiveness, and assessing the risk of fractures associated with bone skeletal disease.

How much does a densitometer cost

To perform densitometry on the devices, the price varies depending on the model and manufacturer. Entry-level devices typically cost between $16,000 and $20,000. In Ukraine, — in hryvnia at the exchange rate at the time of purchase. These models have fundamental functions. Buying them is beneficial for a small clinic or practice with basic requirements.

Advanced and multifunctional bone densitometers can cost up to $45,000 or more. These advanced models offer enhanced capabilities and are often preferred by large health facilities or specialty clinics.

Buying a densitometer is profitable in Ukraine

Inexpensive medical equipment in Ukraine is offered by the company «Rad Pharm». Our clients receive a full range of services, including equipment delivery, installation and launch, as well as training of personnel in working with devices. All medical equipment is accompanied by a guarantee of 12-24 months. During the warranty period and after it, «Rad Pharm» specialists perform maintenance of the units and, if necessary, their repair. All goods are certified and approved by the Ministry of Health for use in Ukraine.  Contact us to learn more. You can order a call back and we will contact you ourselves at a time convenient for you.