How Bone Densitometry Works & How We Save You Time & Money

Even with the many equipment variations and types, Excedr’s leasing program can accommodate any preferences your lab may have regarding brand or model. Get in touch with us today and learn about how leasing can discount your DXA scanner’s price.

All equipment brands/models are available

The Advantages of Excedr’s Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry Leasing Program:

Eliminates the upfront cost of purchasing equipment by spreading its cost over time
Minimizes equipment downtime with included complete repair coverage and preventive maintenance
Takes advantage of potentially 100% tax deductible* payments, providing you significant cash-savings
Expedites the administrative work needed for instrument procurement and logistics
Conserves working capital, enabling you to reinvest in your core business and operations (staffing, inventory, marketing/sales, etc.)
Accommodates all manufacturer and model preferences

*Please consult your tax advisor to determine the full tax implications of leasing equipment.

three monitors next to each other: two displaying eyes and one displaying a nose

A densitometer determines the density of an object by measuring the degree to which light is either able to pass through or not pass through the material. This property is referred to as optical density.

In densitometry, a material’s optical density is measured by exposing it to light and observing how much light the object absorbs, which is also called absorptiometry.

Densitometers, or densitometry scanners, are used to measure color saturation in prints, quantify radioactivity of compounds in gene studies, and see extensive use in the field of radiology. There are two main types of densitometers:

Transmission: these densitometers deal with the measurement of light passing through an object.
Reflection: these densitometers measure how much light reflects off of an object.

There are particular types of densitometers called bone densitometers, which use bone densitometry to produce images of the body’s insides to measure bone loss, bone mass, or bone mineral density (BMD). The most commonly scanned body areas include the lower spine and hips; however, whole-body scans are sometimes performed.

Bone densitometry, also referred to as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA), is an excellent method for dealing with patients’ bone health. This process can typically be difficult and incredibly painful. Having an indirect way to perform bone density scans is very important in the healthcare industry.

DEXA is a quick, non-invasive scan that radiologists and radiologic technologists use to examine a patient’s bones. It requires very little ionizing radiation to perform. Most commonly, DEXA is used as a diagnostic tool to monitor osteoporosis or the risk of developing osteoporotic fractures.

It can also be used for bone density tests, where bone mineral content and density are measured. (These tests can also be performed using a unique type of CT scan.) Furthermore, bone density measurement is an effective way to determine fracture risk and other risk factors and conditions that can cause bone loss, low bone mass, or damage.

Many patients at high risk for hip fractures have been identified and diagnosed using a bone densitometer.

Scanner Functions, Techniques & Associated Costs

DEXA scanners are able to measure bone mineral densities by using high energy X-ray beams that can penetrate the human body. Specifically, two X-ray beams of different energy levels pass through the patient’s body while

DEXA scans can measure bone mineral densities by using high-energy X-ray beams that can penetrate the human body. Specifically, two X-ray beams of different energy levels pass through the patient’s body while some of the X-rays are absorbed by bones and soft tissue.

That said, DEXA scans differ from CT scans because they cause very little radiation exposure due to the low-dose x-rays used. It is considered less than an entire day’s worth of exposure to natural radiation.

The X-rays that are not absorbed pass through the body and are picked up by a detector. After subtracting, the energy absorbed by the soft-tissue bone density can be calculated based on how much energy was picked up after passing through the body.

The denser the bones, the more energy they absorb, meaning less energy can pass through the body and be picked up by the detectors.

Variations

The parts on DXA scanners can vary from model to model. Specifically, the type of filter and tube voltage that is used can be different. Cerium and samarium filters are two of the most common types of filters used, with tube voltages of either 80 or 100 kilovolts. Additionally, DXA scanners are classified as being one of two types of devices:

Central: The larger of the two types. Central devices are used to measure BMD of the hip or spine, equipped with a large table and an “arm” that hangs over the patient.
Peripheral: Considerably smaller than central devices, peripheral devices, sometimes referred to as pDXA, measure BMD in the wrists, heels, and fingers. They are portable and weigh around 60 pounds.

DXL

Dual X-ray absorptiometry and laser technique describe a method of measuring BMD using lasers to measure the thickness of the scanned area. This aims to improve the data and the accuracy of the measurements obtained in conventional DXA scanners.

In order for DXA scanners to account for the X-ray energy absorbed by soft tissues, doctors must assume a constant relationship between it and adipose tissue. This is not always the case and can lead to measurement errors.

In DXL, having a laser scan of the thickness of the measured area can give doctors the information they need to produce a more accurate BMD.

Deep Space Studies with Densitometry

Space travel has always possessed an allure that has been difficult to ignore. We continue to send people and spacecraft deeper and deeper into and out of our solar system.

We have even set up the International Space Station to run experiments while in orbit around our planet. Our sights seem set on making our next major human-crewed mission to Mars, posing some unique issues.

We know that prolonged time spent in zero gravity has significant effects on our bodies. However, we do not fully understand all of those effects. Part of the research being conducted on the ISS is focused on determining what exactly might happen to future space travelers while spending months at a time in this unique environment.

In 2016, NASA studied the effects of prolonged exposure to low gravity on the body by sending one of the Kelly identical twins into space while the other remained on earth. The results were fascinating and indicated that a prolonged flight in space would result in major changes in the human body.

When Scott Kelly came back from his year spent in space, scientists found that the effects of microgravity even altered his DNA. Chromosomal changes, osteopenia, and gut flora signal to scientists that when we make the trip to Mars, we will need to be prepared for the consequences of space travel.

Bone Densitometer Leases to Fit Every Need

Whether you’re interested in leasing a bone densitometer or an MRI machine, we can help. Contact us today at (510) 982-6552 or fill out our contact form online to discuss your leasing needs in detail.

Operating Lease

This off-balance sheet financing structure provides three options at the end of the term. The lessee has the option to return the equipment to the lessor, renew at a discounted rate, or purchase the instrument for the fair market value. Monthly payments are also 100% tax deductible which yields additional monetary savings.

Sale-Leaseback

If you recently bought equipment, Excedr can offer you cash for your device and convert your purchase into a long-term rental. This is called a sale leaseback. If you’ve paid for equipment within the last ninety days, we can help you recoup your investment and allow you to make low monthly payments. This also frees up money in your budget rather than tying it down to a fixed asset.

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