Horizon DXA System

What is the Horizon DXA System?

The Horizon DXA System is a state-of-the-art dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanner used for measuring bone mineral density (BMD). It is primarily employed to assess bone health and diagnose conditions such as osteoporosis. The system utilizes advanced X-ray technology to provide precise measurements of bone density, helping healthcare providers evaluate bone strength and risk of fractures.

How Does It Help?

The Horizon DXA System helps by offering accurate and reliable assessments of bone mineral density, which is crucial for diagnosing osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions. By measuring bone density, it allows healthcare providers to identify individuals at risk of fractures and implement appropriate preventative or therapeutic interventions. This helps in managing bone health, preventing fractures, and improving overall patient outcomes.

How Is It Done?

Preparation

Patients are advised to wear loose, comfortable clothing and remove any metal objects from the body, such as jewelry or belts, to avoid interference with the scan. They should also inform the healthcare provider about any recent medical procedures or conditions that might affect the DXA results, such as pregnancy or the use of certain medications.

Procedure

During the DXA scan, the patient lies on a padded table, and the Horizon DXA System’s X-ray arm moves over the area of interest, typically the spine and hip. The machine uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density at these sites. The scan is quick, generally taking only a few minutes, and involves minimal radiation exposure. The data collected is analyzed to generate images and density measurements.

After Treatment

After the scan, the patient can resume normal activities immediately. The results, which include bone mineral density measurements and comparisons to normal ranges, are reviewed by a radiologist or healthcare provider. A report is prepared and discussed with the patient during a follow-up appointment. The DXA machine is cleaned and prepared for the next patient according to standard protocols.

What Are The Benefits & Risks Of Horizon DXA System?

Benefits:

• Accurate Bone Density Measurement: Provides precise measurements of bone mineral density, which is essential for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk.
• Low Radiation Exposure: Uses minimal radiation compared to other imaging techniques, making it a safe option for bone density assessment.

Risks:

• Limited to Bone Density: While effective for measuring bone mineral density, the DXA scan does not assess bone quality or detect all types of bone diseases.
• Radiation Exposure: Although minimal, there is a small risk associated with radiation exposure, which is generally considered negligible compared to the benefits of accurate diagnosis and management of bone health.

What Makes the Horizon DXA System So Unique?

The Horizon DXA System is unique for its advanced technology that combines precision bone density measurement with user-friendly features and low radiation exposure. Its ability to provide detailed and accurate assessments of bone health helps in early diagnosis and effective management of osteoporosis and other bone conditions. The system’s design emphasizes patient comfort and efficiency, making it a valuable tool in both clinical and research settings for evaluating bone mineral density and assessing fracture risk.