A needle in a shin predict osteoporosis

Gently probe inserted into the tibia can predict the risk of osteoporosis in humans, in whom the disease has not even begun to develop. Furthermore, the gadget is able to determine the danger of fracture.

bone density

The American company Active Life Scientific has developed a gadget that will allow doctors to quickly determine the strength and bone health of patients. Experimental samples of probes currently being tested in different health care settings. The probe is a needle, which is screwed into the bone accurately to determine its strength.

Needle need to enter only a fraction of a millimeter, the doctor realized how healthy and strong is the skeletal system of the patient. For example, bone density   It is considered normal if the needle stops at 20 micrometers, or 0, 02 mm. This is less than the thickness of a human hair. But if the probe is held at a depth of 40 micrometers (0, 04 mm), it indicates a significant risk of fractures.

Our bones are porous, like a honeycomb in a beehive, they have a specific lattice structure. When the bones begin to weaken, and that happens when osteoporosis , Those "cell" is increasing. This reduces the bone density So the needle tip and can penetrate deeper. The process of testing with the new gadget only takes a few seconds. And though it requires to pierce the skin and bone, the creators of the gadget assure that the patient is experiencing as much pain as the ordinary prick syringe. To test the specially selected shin bone, as it is easily accessible and is one of the largest in the body.

About 1, 5 million Russians suffering from osteoporosis, in which the probability of fracture becomes higher. This is the main cause of disability and the inability to live independently among people over 65. (READ MORE)

Treatment and prevention

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