A selection of tips and considerations to help you purchase the most effective bone densitometer possible.
1. When selecting these units, speed should be the most important factor.
2. Systems should perform quick scans taking no longer than one minute while performing automatic data analysis and corrections.
3. Report management is a critical factor because DXA is used for long-term monitoring and creating reference databases.
4. There is a broad range of models designed for specific clinical applications. Buyers should consider the following features: data mining, analysis options, and the ability to share old data with a new system.
5. Beam shape should be considered when choosing among DXA systems.
6. Shorter scan times and higher patient throughput as a result are achieved with systems using fan-beam technology, which performs a single sweep across the patient. However, pencil-beam systems offer lower exposure to radiation and usually cost less than fan-beam systems.
7. Facilities considering whole-body DXA system should keep in mind that the installation of such a system usually requires an examination room that can accommodate the scanner table and the operator console. A room measuring at least 244 × 244 cm may be necessary, depending on the size of the table and operator console; small tables are becoming more available.
8. DXA systems may require certified technicians for proper operation since they use radiation.
9. There are some alternatives to whole-body DXA systems, including peripheral DXA and ultrasound systems. These are smaller and cheaper, and they typically assess the peripheral rather than the axial skeleton. The radiation exposure is lower than typical DXA systems.
10. Ultrasonic bone densitometers do not use ionizing radiation or need special facilities, certification, or operation by registered technicians. Therefore, it is ideal for physician offices, mobile clinics, and other sites.
11. DXA is limited to hospital-based osteoporosis clinics.
12. Some suppliers offer financing arrangements under a fee-sharing program to qualifying facilities to assist with the purchase of a DXA system. This program requires the payment of a specific fee per tested patient, and allows the facility to back down from the program at any time and return the equipment without penalty.
