Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry
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A Bone Densitometer, or DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scanner, is a medical imaging device that uses very low-dose X-rays to measure bone mineral density (BMD). Radiologists, endocrinologists, rheumatologists, and gynaecologists in Nigeria use it as the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to break. Its clinical impact is immense, allowing doctors to assess a patient's fracture risk, diagnose bone loss before a fracture occurs, and monitor the effectiveness of treatments for osteoporosis. For your facility, offering DEXA scans positions you as a leader in preventative care, particularly for the aging population and post-menopausal women.
The price for a Bone Densitometer in Nigeria ranges from NGN 15 million for a basic refurbished unit to over NGN 90 million for a new, advanced system with all software modules. Entry-level refurbished pencil-beam systems cost between NGN 15M - 25M. Mid-range fan-beam systems, which are faster and offer more features, cost NGN 28M - 55M for a premium refurbished or new model. Advanced new systems from top brands like GE or Hologic, featuring total body composition and research software, start from NGN 60M and can exceed NGN 90M.
The final price you pay is driven by several factors: the technology (slower pencil-beam vs. faster fan-beam), included software modules (like Vertebral Fracture Assessment - VFA), brand reputation, and the included accessories like a UPS. The cost is also heavily influenced by the warranty period, level of on-site training, foreign exchange rates at the time of purchase, and the cost of freight and customs clearance. When you request a quote, ensure it is itemised, detailing the cost of the scanner, calibration phantoms, installation, training, and warranty terms to avoid hidden charges.
For a detailed, transparent quote that matches your clinical needs and budget, contact Franance.
Entry-level, refurbished pencil-beam DEXA models start from NGN 15 million to NGN 25 million. These are typically older, but reliable, systems like the GE Lunar DPX or Hologic QDR series, which are sufficient for basic spine and hip bone density measurements. While the initial price is attractive, be aware of potential hidden costs and limitations. The warranty is often shorter (3-6 months), and installation, calibration, and freight might not be included in the headline price. Furthermore, spare parts for these older models can be harder to source in Nigeria, potentially leading to longer downtimes if a fault occurs.
Contact Franance to help you evaluate low-cost options and ensure they are safe and sustainable for your facility.
The most affordable and best-value option is a turnkey bundle for a certified refurbished fan-beam system, typically priced between NGN 28 million and NGN 45 million. This price should include the DEXA unit, a 5kVA pure sine wave online UPS, full turnkey installation, NNRA registration support, on-site application training for up to three technologists, and a comprehensive 12-month parts and labour warranty. Choosing a bundled package like this over buying components separately significantly reduces your total cost of ownership and operational risk. A facility that invests in this bundle can expect to reduce equipment downtime by over 80% in the first year compared to one that buys the cheapest unit and tries to source a UPS and training separately.
Franance specialises in creating these all-inclusive, affordable packages to ensure you are operational from day one.
New DEXA systems in Nigeria range from NGN 45 million to NGN 90 million+, while certified refurbished units cost between NGN 15 million and NGN 45 million, offering a significant capital saving of 40-60%. The choice depends on your budget, patient volume, and long-term plans. A new system offers a longer operational lifecycle (10-12 years), the latest software features, and a 1-2 year OEM warranty but comes with a much longer lead time (12-16 weeks). A high-quality refurbished unit has a shorter but very viable lifecycle (5-7 years), a strong vendor warranty (typically 12 months), and can be delivered and installed much faster (6-10 weeks), providing a quicker return on investment.
| Feature | New DEXA System | Certified Refurbished DEXA |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | NGN 45M - 90M+ | NGN 15M - 45M |
| Lifecycle | 10-12 years | 5-7 years |
| Warranty | 1-2 years (OEM) | 6-12 months (Vendor) |
| Software | Latest version, all features | May be 1-2 versions behind |
| Lead Time | 12-16 weeks | 6-10 weeks |
| Uptime | Excellent | Very Good (with good vendor) |
Franance can provide a detailed cost-benefit analysis comparing new and refurbished options for your specific needs.
Contact Franance for a detailed, line-item quote tailored to your facility's needs and budget.
You can find suppliers of Bone Densitometers in Nigeria's major commercial hubs—Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt—but you must conduct rigorous due diligence before making any payment. A credible supplier is more than just a salesperson; they are a technical partner. Start by verifying their company registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Then, demand proof of their relationship with the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), such as an authorization letter. Critically, ask to speak with their lead biomedical engineer to assess their technical depth and request at least three recent client references from hospitals you can call and verify.
Franance simplifies this entire process. Our procurement workflow includes a multi-point verification for every supplier in our network. We check their corporate standing, technical certifications, financial stability, import licensing (NNRA), and track record of successful installations in Nigeria. We ensure they have the engineering capacity and spare parts strategy to support your investment long-term.
Let Franance connect you with our network of pre-verified, reliable DEXA suppliers in Nigeria.
Franance is a turnkey procurement and service partner, providing access to a vetted network of suppliers, engineers, and financing for DEXA projects across Nigeria. We cover every state, ensuring that whether you are in Sokoto or Calabar, you receive the same high standard of service. We act as your project manager, de-risking the entire procurement process from equipment selection to post-installation support.
The best DEXA system for your facility is one that matches your clinical needs, patient throughput, and budget. For top-tier performance, models like the Hologic Horizon or GE Lunar iDXA are the best, costing upwards of NGN 75 million, and are suited for teaching hospitals and research centres.
Entry-Tier (Private Clinics, Low-Volume): A refurbished GE Lunar DPX or Hologic QDR is best. These pencil-beam systems are workhorses, ideal for facilities seeing fewer than 10 patients per day. They provide accurate spine and hip BMD measurements, the core of osteoporosis diagnosis.
Mid-Tier (General Hospitals, Diagnostic Centres): A new or premium refurbished fan-beam system like the GE Lunar Prodigy or Hologic Discovery is the best choice. These are perfect for facilities seeing 10-30 patients daily. The key outcome-moving spec here is the fast scan time (1-3 minutes) and the inclusion of Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), which enhances diagnostic capability and revenue.
Advanced-Tier (Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutions): A new, high-end system like the GE Lunar iDXA or Hologic Horizon is unmatched. These are for high-volume centres (>30 patients/day) and research. Their superior specs include high-definition detectors, one-minute scan times, and advanced software for total body composition analysis and Trabecular Bone Score (TBS), which are critical for complex metabolic and endocrine cases.
How to match tier to workload:
Comparing DEXA models requires you to balance scan time, diagnostic features (like VFA), and long-term reliability against your budget. Fan-beam systems are the modern standard for any facility expecting more than a few patients a day, as their speed directly impacts your revenue potential. Pencil-beam systems are slower but are a reliable, low-cost entry point.
| Tier | Best for | Key Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | Low-volume clinics (<10/day) | Pencil-beam, ~5-10 min scan, Basic BMD | 6-8 weeks (Refurb) | Moderate | 2kVA UPS |
| Mid | General hospitals (10-30/day) | Fan-beam, ~1-3 min scan, VFA optional | 8-12 weeks | Low | 3kVA UPS |
| Advanced | Teaching hospitals (>30/day) | High-def fan-beam, <1 min scan, VFA, Body Comp, TBS | 12-16 weeks | Low-Moderate | 5kVA UPS |
GE Healthcare and Hologic are the two best and most dominant brands for DEXA scanners in Nigeria due to their proven reliability, established service networks, and better availability of spare parts. Choosing between them often comes down to specific features and local support.
GE Healthcare's Lunar series, particularly the GE Lunar Prodigy, is renowned as a workhorse system, valued for its reliability, user-friendly software, and strong local engineering support. The GE Lunar iDXA is their high-end offering for research and complex clinical work. Hologic is a strong competitor, with its Hologic Discovery series praised for excellent image quality and the Hologic Horizon series leading in advanced applications like high-resolution vertebral assessment and research tools. When choosing, the quality of the local representative is just as important as the brand itself.
A precise price list is impossible due to fluctuating FX rates and configurations, but here are the reliable price ranges for planning purposes in Nigeria. These ranges typically cover the cost of the equipment itself (CIF Lagos).
When you receive a quote, check if it's "CIF" (cost, insurance, freight to Lagos port) or "Turnkey" (includes customs clearance, local delivery, installation, training, and UPS). A turnkey quote can be 25-40% higher than a CIF quote but eliminates all hidden costs. For example, a system quoted at NGN 30M CIF might have a final turnkey cost of NGN 42M after factoring in customs, NNRA permits, logistics, and a proper UPS. FX volatility can also alter the final Naira price by 5-10% between the quote date and the payment date, so always confirm the validity period of any quote.
The five most decisive specifications that impact clinical outcomes and your facility's revenue are beam technology, scan time, software modules, detector technology, and DICOM compatibility.
A standard DEXA installation takes 2-3 full days on-site after the room is prepared and typically costs between NGN 500,000 and NGN 1,500,000, a fee that should be included in any turnkey purchase package. The process is meticulous and must be handled by a factory-trained engineer. It begins with a site readiness assessment to ensure your room meets the space, power, and potential shielding requirements. Once the unit arrives, the engineer will manage the uncrating, mechanical assembly, software installation, and power-on tests. The most critical step is calibration, where the engineer uses an OEM-specific phantom (a block with known densities) to calibrate the machine to factory standards. This is followed by application training for your radiographers.
Let Franance manage your entire DEXA project from site preparation and NNRA compliance to final calibration and staff training for a guaranteed go-live date.
Delivery of a DEXA scanner from Europe or the USA to your facility in Nigeria typically takes 6-9 weeks and can cost 15-25% of the equipment's value. The process starts with the supplier securing an Import Permit from the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), which is mandatory. The system is then air-freighted to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, a journey of 4-6 weeks. Upon arrival, it faces customs clearance, which can take 1-3 weeks and requires meticulous documentation (Form M, PAAR, etc.). Once cleared, it is transported via a dedicated, insured truck to your hospital. The entire process is complex and fraught with potential delays, making it crucial to work with a supplier experienced in Nigerian medical equipment logistics.
A standard warranty for a DEXA system in Nigeria is 12 months for both parts and on-site labour. However, you must confirm this is a local warranty supported by engineers and parts in Nigeria, not a theoretical OEM warranty that requires shipping parts abroad. After the warranty period, an annual comprehensive service contract will cost between 8-12% of the original equipment price. For a NGN 40M system, this means a service budget of NGN 3.2M - NGN 4.8M per year. A good Service Level Agreement (SLA) is critical and should guarantee a 48-hour maximum response time from a qualified engineer and include two preventive maintenance visits per year to ensure the system remains calibrated and performs reliably.
High-quality, professionally refurbished fan-beam DEXA systems from brands like GE and Hologic are available from NGN 25 million to NGN 45 million and represent the best value-for-money for most Nigerian hospitals and diagnostic centres. It is crucial to distinguish between a simple "used" machine and a "certified refurbished" one. A properly refurbished unit has been dismantled, tested, and has had key components like the X-ray tube or detector replaced and calibrated to meet original OEM specifications. These systems should come with a minimum 12-month warranty, just like a new one, and offer 90-95% of the performance of a new machine for about 50-60% of the price.
You can verify the authenticity of a DEXA system by validating its serial number directly with the OEM's regional office or through their official website and by ensuring your supplier is an authorized partner. Counterfeit or grey-market systems are a real risk. Red flags include a price that is significantly below market value (e.g., 50% cheaper than any other quote for a similar model), a supplier who is evasive about the unit's history, missing or tampered serial number plates, and pressure to make a quick payment into a personal bank account. Always insist on inspecting the equipment (or detailed photos/videos if it's overseas) before payment.
The most essential accessories you need to budget for are a dedicated 5kVA online UPS, a calibration phantom, and a set of patient positioning aids, which together will add NGN 1.5 million to NGN 3 million to your total project cost. The UPS is not negotiable in Nigeria; it is the single most important item for protecting the sensitive electronics and X-ray tube from power fluctuations. The calibration phantom is required for daily quality control and annual service. Fortunately, DEXA scanners have very few ongoing consumables beyond standard office printer paper and toner for printing reports. It is always more cost-effective to bundle all accessories with the main unit purchase to save on separate shipping and clearing costs.
DEXA scanners require a clean, stable 220-240V, 50Hz single-phase power supply, protected by a dedicated 3-5kVA true online (double-conversion) UPS with an isolation transformer. This is a mandatory requirement for operating in Nigeria. The erratic public power supply, with its frequent surges, sags, and outages, will damage the machine's sensitive detectors and X-ray tube control board, leading to costly repairs. You must also ensure a dedicated, low-impedance "clean earth" connection is installed. Do not share the power circuit with other equipment like air conditioners. The UPS and proper earthing are your insurance policy against the Nigerian power grid.
To legally import and operate a Bone Densitometer in Nigeria, you must comply with the regulations of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA). Your supplier is responsible for obtaining the NNRA Permit to Import before the machine is shipped and for registering the device with the NNRA upon installation. Failure to do so can result in the equipment being seized by customs, significant fines, and your facility being unable to operate it legally. Additionally, the equipment may need to be listed on the National Medical Devices Register (NMDR), and the import process must comply with Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) requirements. You must keep a compliance dossier at your facility containing all these permits and calibration records.
Financing options for acquiring a DEXA scanner in Nigeria include traditional bank loans, asset leasing companies, and specialised healthcare financing from partners like Franance, with typical interest rates ranging from 25% to 35% per annum. Bank loans from institutions like Sterling Bank or Access Bank often require significant collateral (e.g., landed property) and have a lengthy approval process of 4-8 weeks. Leasing allows you to acquire the asset with a lower upfront cost and spread payments over 2-3 years, though the total cost is higher. Franance offers a more flexible approach, providing tailored financing and leasing solutions with a faster approval timeline (2-4 weeks), often using the equipment itself as part of the collateral.
The 5-year Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for a mid-range DEXA system in Nigeria is typically 1.5 to 1.8 times the initial purchase price. If you purchase a system for NGN 40 million, you should budget a total of NGN 55M - 65M over the first five years of operation. This includes the initial capital outlay, the cost of a mandatory UPS, annual service contracts after the first year's warranty, and electricity costs. For a NGN 40M system, a typical 5-year TCO breakdown would be: NGN 40M (purchase) + NGN 2M (UPS/installation) + NGN 12.8M (4 years of service contract at 8% per year) + NGN 2.5M (power/consumables) = ~NGN 57.3M. Understanding TCO helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
A GE Lunar iDXA or Hologic Horizon is the ideal system for a tertiary or teaching hospital. These advanced fan-beam units are built for high patient throughput, with scan times often under two minutes. They come equipped with essential research and advanced clinical modules like Trabecular Bone Score (TBS), total body composition, and advanced hip analysis, which are critical for complex endocrinology cases, paediatric assessments, and academic research. You should budget NGN 70 million to NGN 90 million+ for a turnkey package.
A new or premium refurbished fan-beam system like the GE Lunar Prodigy or Hologic Discovery offers the best return on investment for a private clinic or diagnostic centre. These models provide the perfect balance of speed, advanced features, and reliability. The fast scan times allow for high patient throughput, while the inclusion of Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA) provides an additional, billable diagnostic service that can significantly boost your revenue stream. A realistic budget for a turnkey solution is between NGN 30 million and NGN 55 million.
For NGO-led screening programs or public health initiatives, a robust, cost-effective refurbished pencil-beam system like the GE Lunar DPX is the most practical choice. While fully mobile DEXA vans are extremely expensive and difficult to maintain in Nigeria, installing a durable, easy-to-service unit in a regional health centre is a more sustainable strategy. These systems are workhorses, providing the core spine and hip BMD measurements needed for large-scale osteoporosis screening. The budget for the equipment would be in the NGN 15 million to NGN 25 million range.
Bone Densitometers (DEXA) are not used in emergency, theatre, or ICU settings. They are specialised diagnostic imaging tools designed for outpatient clinics and radiology departments to assess chronic bone conditions like osteoporosis. They are not intended for acute trauma or critical care monitoring. For bone imaging in an emergency context, a standard X-ray or CT scanner is the appropriate modality.
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A DEXA scanner in Nigeria costs between NGN 15 million and NGN 65 million. A professionally refurbished GE Lunar DPX for a new diagnostic centre might cost NGN 15-22 million. A new, advanced system like the Hologic Horizon A, offering features like Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), can cost upwards of NGN 60 million, depending on the configuration and included software.
You can buy DEXA scanners from authorized medical equipment suppliers in Lagos who represent brands like GE Healthcare and Hologic. It is crucial to verify their authorization to ensure you receive genuine products, valid warranties, and manufacturer-certified engineering support. Ask for their certificate of distributorship for a model like the GE Lunar Prodigy before making a purchase.
A professionally refurbished DEXA machine in Nigeria typically costs between NGN 15 million and NGN 28 million. For example, a refurbished Hologic Discovery C can be acquired in this range, offering a cost-effective entry point for clinics in cities like Port Harcourt. Ensure the refurbishment includes a new X-ray tube, recent calibration, and at least a 12-month warranty from the supplier.
Yes, you can get financing for DEXA scanners through specialized healthcare financing providers. Companies like Franance offer lease-to-own plans that allow you to acquire a system like the GE Lunar Prodigy with minimal upfront capital. This spreads the cost over 24 to 48 months, making advanced diagnostic technology accessible for your facility without draining your cash reserves.
A DEXA scanner requires a dedicated room of at least 3m x 4m with lead shielding on the walls, door, and viewing window. For a Hologic Horizon system, you'll also need a dedicated 220-240V, 15A power line connected to a 5kVA UPS to protect against power surges common in Nigeria. The floor must be level and capable of supporting approximately 500 kg.
A DEXA machine requires daily calibration using a manufacturer-provided phantom before scanning the first patient. This process, which takes about 5-10 minutes on a GE Lunar Prodigy, ensures the accuracy of Bone Mineral Density (BMD) measurements. Additionally, a full service calibration by a certified engineer should be performed annually as part of your preventive maintenance schedule.
Your choice depends on your specific clinical needs and budget. The GE Lunar Prodigy is known for its robust performance and lower long-term maintenance costs, making it a workhorse for high-volume centres. The Hologic Discovery series often provides superior image resolution and advanced features like Atypical Femur Fracture (AFF) assessment, which is ideal for specialized orthopedic or endocrinology practices.
To operate a DEXA scanner, you must obtain a license from the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA). This involves submitting a facility plan with shielding calculations, registering the specific device (e.g., Hologic Discovery A), and designating a certified Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). NNRA officials will conduct a pre-installation inspection of your facility in Lagos, Abuja, or elsewhere to ensure compliance.
The entire process from site preparation to first patient scan takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks. Room preparation, including shielding and electrical work, takes 1-2 weeks. The physical installation and calibration of a unit like the GE Lunar Prodigy by a certified engineer takes 2-3 days. This is followed by 2-3 days of applications training for your radiographers and clinicians.
The most affordable option is a professionally refurbished, older-generation pencil-beam scanner, which can be found for under NGN 15 million. However, for clinical relevance, a refurbished fan-beam system like an early GE Lunar DPX series is a better entry-point, costing around NGN 15-18 million. These are suitable for basic osteoporosis screening but lack the speed and advanced features of newer models.
Leasing is better if you want to conserve capital and have a predictable monthly expense. A lease-to-own plan from a provider like Franance for a Hologic Horizon covers the equipment, maintenance, and training in one payment. Buying outright is better if you have the capital and want to own the asset from day one, avoiding interest payments and having full control over the equipment.
The most common problem is scan failure due to unstable power, which can be solved by installing a 5kVA or higher online UPS for your Hologic or GE system. Another issue is detector drift caused by high humidity or temperature fluctuations in the scan room. Maintaining consistent air conditioning (20-24°C) is critical for accurate and repeatable BMD measurements.
Choose a supplier who is the official, authorized distributor for the brand (e.g., GE, Hologic). Ask for proof of their distributorship and inquire about their team of factory-trained engineers based in Nigeria. A reliable supplier will offer a comprehensive warranty (minimum 12 months) and a service level agreement (SLA) for post-installation support, ensuring minimal downtime for your facility.
The X-ray tube in a modern DEXA scanner, such as the one in a GE Lunar Prodigy, is designed to last for 7-10 years under normal clinical use. Its lifespan is measured in scan-seconds, not just years. Consistent, stable power from a UPS is the single most important factor in maximizing the tube's life and avoiding a premature, costly replacement which can exceed NGN 5 million.
You do not need NAFDAC approval, as DEXA scanners are classified as medical radiation-emitting devices, not drugs or consumables. While Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) conformity (SONCAP) is required for importation, your primary regulatory body is the NNRA. The NNRA license is mandatory for owning and operating any ionising radiation equipment in Nigeria, and your supplier should guide you through this process.
DEXA machines require daily user quality control (QC) scans with a phantom and one annual preventive maintenance (PM) visit from a certified engineer. During the PM for a Hologic Discovery, the engineer will check X-ray beam alignment, detector calibration, and mechanical components. A comprehensive service contract is recommended to cover potential repairs and ensure consistent uptime in a busy Kano or Abuja clinic.
Yes, modern DEXA scanners provide precise body composition analysis. Systems like the Hologic Horizon A with the Advanced Body Composition® assessment feature can accurately measure visceral adipose tissue (VAT), lean mass, and fat mass distribution. This is a valuable tool for endocrinology, sports medicine, and wellness clinics, going beyond simple bone density measurement.
Your radiographers will need 2-3 days of intensive, on-site applications training from a specialist provided by your supplier. This training covers patient positioning for spine, femur, and forearm scans, performing daily QC, and using the analysis software on a system like the GE Lunar iDXA. Proper positioning is critical for accurate and reproducible BMD results, so this training is non-negotiable.
You need a room with minimum dimensions of 3 meters by 4 meters (12 sq. meters). This provides adequate space for the scanner table (e.g., a GE Lunar Prodigy), the operator's console, and safe clearance for patient and staff movement. The control console must be positioned behind a lead-lined screen or wall with a lead glass viewing window for radiation protection.
A new DEXA scanner from an authorized distributor in Nigeria comes with a standard 12-month manufacturer's warranty. This warranty on a new Hologic or GE system covers all parts, labour, and engineer travel for any repairs. It is crucial to confirm that the warranty is backed by the manufacturer and serviced by locally-based, certified engineers to ensure prompt support.
No, you cannot power a DEXA scanner directly from a generator. The power fluctuations from a typical generator can damage the sensitive electronics and the X-ray tube. You must use an online, double-conversion UPS (minimum 5kVA) between the generator/mains supply and the DEXA scanner. The UPS for a system like the GE Lunar Prodigy conditions the power, providing a stable, clean electrical supply.
The patient cost for a DEXA scan in Nigeria ranges from NGN 20,000 to NGN 50,000. In Lagos or Abuja, a standard two-site scan (spine and hip) at a private facility like Lily Hospitals or Evercare Hospital typically costs NGN 30,000-40,000. Scans that include additional analysis like Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA) or whole-body composition will be at the higher end of this range.
A new DEXA scanner comes with a comprehensive software suite for acquisition and analysis. For example, the GE Lunar enCORE software platform includes standard protocols for AP spine, dual femur, and forearm. Optional modules you can purchase include Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), pediatric analysis, and Advanced Body Composition, allowing you to expand your diagnostic services over time.
Request a detailed refurbishment report from the supplier. This report for a Hologic Discovery should specify that the X-ray tube and detectors were tested and meet manufacturer specifications, or were replaced. Ask for the date of manufacture and confirm that the software is a recent, clinically relevant version. A quality refurbished unit will always come with at least a 12-month warranty.
The return on investment (ROI) for a DEXA scanner depends on patient volume. If you perform 5-7 scans per day at an average price of NGN 30,000, a mid-range system like a GE Lunar Prodigy (costing NGN 35-45 million) can achieve ROI in 24-36 months. This calculation should factor in staffing, maintenance, and marketing costs to attract referrals from GPs, endocrinologists, and gynecologists.
You do not need a specially reinforced floor, but it must be perfectly level and solid. A standard concrete ground floor is ideal. The total weight of a system like the Hologic Horizon is around 450-500 kg, which is well within the load-bearing capacity of most modern clinical buildings. Avoid installing on wooden or raised floors that can vibrate or flex, as this will affect scan quality.
You must implement a daily backup protocol for all patient scan data. The system's PC, like the one on a GE Lunar iDXA, should be backed up to an external hard drive or a secure hospital network server. To ensure patient privacy, the workstation must be password-protected, and access should be restricted to authorized personnel only, in line with medical best practices.
Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), or Lateral Vertebral Assessment (LVA), is a low-dose image of the thoracic and lumbar spine captured by the DEXA scanner. It allows clinicians to identify vertebral compression fractures, which are often asymptomatic but a strong indicator of high fracture risk. This feature, available on models like the Hologic Horizon, adds significant diagnostic value beyond just BMD measurement.
Upgrading an old DEXA scanner is often not cost-effective. Key components like the detector, X-ray source, and computer hardware are typically not interchangeable between generations. It is usually better to trade in your old system for a credit towards a new or professionally refurbished model. For instance, you could trade in an old GE Lunar DPX for a discount on a newer Lunar Prodigy.
DEXA scan results must be interpreted by a qualified medical professional, typically a radiologist or an endocrinologist with specialized training in bone densitometry. The system, like a Hologic Discovery, generates a report with T-scores and Z-scores, but the final diagnosis of osteoporosis or osteopenia requires clinical correlation by the physician, considering the patient's history and risk factors.