Lunar
Corporation Achilles+
Bone Densitometry Equipment
 Achilles+ provides fast, comfortable
examinations of the os calcis for excellent assessment of osteoporotic fracture risk and
the long-term monitoring of treatment.
Indications for Use: The Achilles+ ultrasonometer
measures ultrasound variables of the os calcis to provide a clinical measure called the
STIFFNESS INDEX. The STIFFNESS INDEX indicates risk of osteoporotic fracture in
postmenopausal women comparable to bone mineral density (BMD) as measured by x-ray
absorptiometry at the spine or hip. STIFFNESS INDEX results expressed as T-scores are used
to assist physicians in the diagnosis of osteoporosis in the same way as are T-scores
obtained by x-ray absorptiometry. Either the STIFFNESS INDEX T-score or x-ray
absorptiometry T-score can be utilized by a physician, in conjunction with other clinical
risk factors, to provide a comprehensive skeletal assessment. The STIFFNESS INDEX has a
precision error in older women comparable to that of x-ray absorptiometry which makes it
suitable for monitoring bone changes.
The Achilles+ ultrasonometer provides a compact,
cost-effective solution for evaluating risk of osteoporotic fracture and monitoring bone
changes. The rapid, non-invasive measurements are simple to perform and easy to interpret.
Diagnosis
The Achilles+ measures ultrasound properties of the heel. The heel, unlike other
peripheral sites, is similar to the proximal femur, since it is load-bearing and rich in
trabecular bone. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Achilles+ results predict the
risk of femur fracture comparably to dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry of the femur itself.
STIFFNESS INDEX
LUNAR's patented Achilles+ STIFFNESS INDEX results are compared to normal and age-matched
reference values, providing a convenient assessment of a patient's skeletal status.
Monitoring
The Achilles+ is the first approved ultrasonometer with a precision error low enough to
allow monitoring of bone changes due to disease progression or therapy. Ultrasound is
susceptible to variations in both skin coupling and temperature. The Achilles+ utilizes
just a few ounces of temperature-controlled water, the optimum coupling medium, to ensure
precision of 2% in osteoporotic patients.
Solo or PC Configurations
The Achilles+ offers superior flexibility. In the Solo configuration, the Achilles+ uses
an internal computer and self-contained printer, enhancing its transportability. The
Achilles+ PC configuration adds database capabilities--useful for patient trending and
clinical research--with a laptop or personal computer.
Most Utilized
Achilles+ has been the most utilized ultrasonometer in the world since its 1992
introduction. More than 2,300 Achilles+ units in 45 countries assist doctors in
osteoporosis diagnosis.
Healthcare Reimbursement
Achilles+ exams have been reimburseable under Medicare biling code G0133 since July 1,
1998. |
