The latest in bone densitometer equipment is available at Tri-City Medical Center for diagnosis of osteoporosis, a condition that reduces bone density, leading to increased porosity and bone brittleness. It is the only osteoporosis diagnostic equipment of its kind in the North County, according to Michael Kipper, M.D., an internal and nuclear medicine specialist.

"This enables us to more accurately diagnose osteoporotic conditions in a manner that is much faster, safer and more comfortable for patients," said Kipper. "The diagnostic information we receive is almost immediate and more accurate than from past procedures," he added.

Hospital officials say the technology available at Tri-City is meeting a significant community healthcare need at a cost similar to other related diagnostic procedures. Prior to its arrival, perhaps two or three patients a month were being tested for osteoporosis at Tri-City Medical Center. Today, it's closer to six patients a day.

"Before, these patients either went undiagnosed or were sent out of the community for diagnosis," noted Kipper.

The new technology comes at a time when medical specialists are reporting that new treatments are enabling patients to regenerate bone mass, in effect, partially reversing the effects of osteoporosis.

"Some real progress in osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment has been made in recent years," said Kipper. "Now Tri-City Medical Center is at the forefront for diagnosing this serious condition."