New bone-density scanner available at Kish Hospital

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A state-of-the-art bone densitometry system scanner was recently installed at Kishwaukee Community Hospital and patient appointments are now being scheduled.

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is recommended for individuals at risk for development of osteoporosis or osteopenia and individuals of any age, including children, who are at risk for fracture.

“The bone densitometer measures the density of the spine, hip and forearm, which are the most frequent sites of fracture,” Jodi Haeffner, manager and interim director of Diagnostic Imaging at KCH, explained in a news release, saying that the scanner helps identifying osteoporosis risk and determining the effects of osteoporosis treatment.

The machine’s precision and accuracy gives doctors the ability to identify patients with low bone density and determine if there is a need for treatment. The GE Prodigy was chosen for its ability to perform accurate and precise exams. It provides high-definition image quality with a low radiation dose, acquired by the highly efficient direct-digital detector.

Trained technologists perform the safe and easy test that can help assess a patient’s risk for osteoporosis. A doctor’s order is necessary. The test takes only minutes, and following the procedure, a digital report is sent to the patient’s doctor.

For patients with no other warning signs for osteoporosis, DXA is recommended every two years for women age 65 years or older and men age 70 years and older.

Appointment times are available Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment for a DXA scan, call 815-748-2975.