State‑of‑the‑art bone density devices handed over at the University of Debrecen
Two new bone density testing devices, representing the most modern technology, have been delivered to the Clinical Center of the University of Debrecen. One machine was put into operation at the Nagyerdei Campus of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the other at the Outpatient Specialized Care Center on Bethlen Street. 12-15 thousand bone density tests are performed at the two locations of the Clinical Center every year, reports unideb.hu.
The medical imaging procedure for measuring bone density (DEXA test) uses low-dose X-rays to determine the mineral content and density of bones. This method can help in the early diagnosis of osteoporosis, in assessing the risk of fractures, and in determining body composition (fat and muscle).
The two new, modern bone density testing machines were recently put into operation at the Clinical Center of the University of Debrecen. The management of the Clinical Center was informed about the operation of the devices on Wednesday as part of a presidential visit.
“Modern diagnostics are an extremely important part of high-quality patient care, which is why our institution strives to introduce the most modern innovations in this area as well. By purchasing the new bone density testing equipment, we will further strengthen the professional quality of our patient care and make modern screening options available to the residents of the region even more widely,” emphasized Professor Zoltán Szabó, President of the Clinical Center of the University of Debrecen.
Such screening has been performed before at the Nagyerdei Campus of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and one of the old devices was replaced with the new device. The other new device has been installed at the Outpatient Specialist Center on Bethlen Street, where a private service provider has previously performed the measurements, but in the future, the examinations will be performed within the framework of the specialist practice of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, and those coming from the Clinical Center’s service area will be accepted with a referral (for example, gynecology, internal medicine, endocrinology, rheumatology, oncology, and traumatology).
“Screening is primarily recommended for women over 50 and men over 40, especially if there is a family history of osteoporosis. It is also recommended to perform the examination in individuals at increased risk of developing osteoporosis, including those with menopause, endocrine disorders, rheumatologic diseases, undergoing oncological treatment, experiencing non‑traumatic fractures, or receiving steroid therapy.” The examination is quick, painless, and takes only 5-15 minutes,” explained Zoárd Krasznai, Director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Clinical Center of the University of Debrecen.
The machine transmits low-dose X-rays at specific points of the body, usually the hips and lumbar spine. Dense bones transmit less radiation, which the machine detects and calculates the bone density. The result is compared with normal values to determine whether there is bone loss. The examination can detect osteoporosis before it causes more serious complaints, the measurement can determine the likelihood of bone fractures, and it is suitable for tracking diseases and monitoring changes in bone density during treatment.
The use of modern machines that are also suitable for examining children will not only help patient care but also educational and scientific activities at the University of Debrecen in the future.
Source and photo credit:dehir.hu

