At a glance…
- The DEXA scanner helps detect subtle changes in bone density.
- Salford Royal received a replacement scanner last year.
- Patients are benefitting from quicker referrals.
- Diagnosing fragile bones earlier can help prevent painful, life-changing fractures.
Patients at risk of osteoporosis and other bone conditions are getting faster access to vital bone scans, following investment in new bone scanners.
Last year, Salford Royal received a replacement DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) scanner – considered the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and accessing fracture risk.
The advanced technology in the new scanners allows clinicians to detect subtle changes in bone density, ensuring patients receive timely and effective interventions.
Patient Sharon Liptrott, 50, (pictured) lives in South Manchester, has benefitted from a DEXA scan at Salford Royal, after medication she has been taking for an autoimmune disease has caused issues with her bones.
She said: “I have recently been having issues with hip pain, and I am really worried about my bone health and strength, so I asked to be referred for another scan to see how things were progressing.
“The speed of the referral was unprecedented. The location was fabulous as it’s much closer to home for me, so it was much easier for travelling.
“The scan itself is quick, it isn’t intrusive at all and I was able to stay fully clothed and see the images straight away, which was fascinating.”
Christine Smyth, 73, lives in Eccles, Saford, and has been receiving treatment for brittle bone disease at Salford Royal for around 10 years. She has been given an injection every six months to manage her condition.
She said: “I have had broken bones five times over the years, including in my arm, feet and back; it can be very painful.
“I have recently had to change treatment but needed a DEXA scan to check my bone density and structure before I started something new.
“The scan didn’t take long at all, it’s great. I am hoping there’s no more breaks in my bones but it’s great that I can have this scan to keep monitoring my condition; it’s a great help to me.”
The DEXA scanner helps diagnose fragile bones earlier and prevent painful, life-changing fractures – particularly among older people and women, who are disproportionately affected by osteoporosis.
Gazelle Oskouei, diagnostic radiographer, at Salford Royal, said: “Having this new replacement scanner is very beneficial for patients returning for their follow up scans. This is important for monitoring changes in bone density and assessing the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatment and helps us to decide on further management.”
