Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 31: KMC Hospital, Attavar, today inaugurated a new DEXA scan machine, a dual energy x-ray absorptiometry system, at a function held at Sushrutha Hall on the second floor of the hospital. The facility marks an mportant addition to the hospital's diagnostic capabilities and will help patients across the coastal region get an accurate
assessment of their bone health.
The DEXA scanner was inaugurated by Dr Ashfaque Mohammed, associate dean, KMC Mangaluru, who was present as the guest of honour for the occasion. Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, Teaching Hospitals, MAHE, Manipal, was also present and graced the event.
A dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan is considered the most reliable method available today for measuring bone mineral density. It is a quick and painless test that uses a very low dose of radiation to detect osteoporosis and osteopenia at an early stage, well before a fracture occurs.
The scan is especially useful for post-menopausal women, elderly patients, and those on long-term medication, as it allows doctors to assess fracture risk and plan timely treatment. The mschine can also be used for accurate body composition analysis, which supports patient management across several specialties.
Dr Suprasanna, professor and head, Department of Radiodiagnosis, KMC Hospital, Attavar, provided an overview of the DEXA scan facility. She explained how the machine works, the range of clinical conditions it can help assess, and how the technology will support accurate diagnosis and better treatment planning for patients.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, Teaching Hospitals, MAHE, Manipal, said, “Bone health is often overlooked until a fracture happens, and by then a lot of damage is already done. With this DEXA facility, KMC Hospital Attavar is bringing world-class diagnostic technology closer to the people of this region. Our commitment at MAHE has always been to combine advanced technology with compassionate, patient-centric care, and this facility is another step in that direction. I am confident it will benefit thousands of patients in the years to come.”
Dr Ashfaque Mohammed, associate dean, KMC Mangaluru, said, “Osteoporosis is a silent condition that affects many people, particularly women, and yet it remains underdiagnosed. The addition of this DEXA scanner will empower our clinicians to detect bone loss early and intervene at the right time. This is a valuable resource not only for our patients but also for the teaching and research work that is central to our institution. I congratulate the team at KMC Hospital Attavar on this achievement.”
The inauguration was attended by Dr Chakrapani M, medical superintendent, KMC Hospital Attavar; Dr Deepak Madi, deputy medical superintendent, KMC Hospital Attavar; and Dr Suprasanna, professor and head, Department of Radiodiagnosis, KMC Hospital Attavar, along with faculty members, consultants, and hospital staff.
With this new facility, KMC Hospital Attavar continues its efforts to provide comprehensive and accessible healthcare to the community it serves, and to support early detection and better management of bone-related conditions in the region.