DEXA Scanner Machine: Types, Uses, Price and Financing Options

A DEXA scanner is a specialised imaging device used primarily to measure bone mineral density and assess bone health.

• DEXA stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry
• It uses two low-dose X-ray energy levels to measure bone mineral density
• DEXA scans can support osteoporosis diagnosis and fracture-risk assessment
• The machine is generally non-invasive and uses a low dose of radiation
• Scanner features can include automated analysis, multi-site scanning and specialised software
• The price depends on the scanner type, brand, specifications, software and service package
• Medical Equipment Finance may help eligible healthcare facility promoters to finance the purchase of a DEXA scanner

Choosing the right DEXA scanner requires consideration of the intended clinical application, scanning capabilities, software, service support and overall ownership cost.

Last updated: September 2026

A DEXA scanner uses two X-ray beams with different energy levels to examine the area being scanned. Bone and soft tissue absorb the X-ray energy differently. The scanner measures these differences and uses them to calculate bone mineral density.

A typical DEXA scan involves the following steps:

1. Patient positioning: The patient lies on the scanning table in the position specified for the examination.
2. Selection of scan area: The operator selects the required area, such as the hip or spine.
3. X-ray scanning: The scanner passes low-dose X-rays through the area being examined.
4. Energy absorption measurement: The system measures how bone and soft tissue absorb the two X-ray energy levels.
5. Data analysis: The software processes the measurements to calculate bone-density results.
6. Report generation: The system generates information that can be reviewed and interpreted by the healthcare professional.

The exact workflow and available analysis features depend on the DEXA system and software installed.

DEXA equipment can be broadly classified according to the area scanned and its intended application.

Central DEXA is commonly used for bone mineral density assessment, while peripheral devices are smaller and designed for measurements at specific peripheral sites.

DEXA scanners can support several healthcare and diagnostic applications.

Osteoporosis assessment

DEXA is commonly used to measure bone mineral density and support the assessment of osteoporosis. It can help identify reduced bone density before a fracture occurs.

Fracture-risk assessment

Bone-density results can be used along with other clinical information to assess a patient's risk of fractures.

Bone-health monitoring

Healthcare professionals may use repeated DEXA examinations to monitor changes in bone density over time or assess response to treatment.

Body composition analysis

Certain DEXA systems can measure body composition, including fat mass and lean mass. This can be useful in areas such as sports medicine, research and selected clinical applications.

Paediatric applications

Some DEXA systems and software are designed to support bone assessment in children. The suitability depends on the equipment and the clinical requirement.

Research applications

DEXA systems can also be used in research involving bone health, body composition and related areas.

DEXA scanner machine prices in India vary considerably depending on the technology tier, brand, software capabilities, and the service package included. The table below provides a general pricing reference for healthcare buyers:

The overall investment may include:

• DEXA scanner machine
• Computer and analysis software
• Installation
• Calibration
• Accessories
• Warranty or service package
• Maintenance
• Software upgrades
• Technical support

Healthcare providers should compare the total ownership cost rather than considering only the initial equipment price.

A DEXA scanner can require a substantial investment, particularly for a new diagnostic centre, hospital department or healthcare facility expanding its imaging capabilities. Medical Equipment Finance can help eligible doctors and healthcare facility promoters fund the purchase of medical equipment while managing repayment through a structured tenure. Bajaj Finance offers Medical Equipment Finance ranging from Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 30 crore, with repayment tenures from 3 months to 120 months, subject to applicable eligibility criteria and terms.

Why consider Medical Equipment Finance for a DEXA scanner?

Depending on eligibility and applicable terms, financing may help healthcare providers:

• Purchase a DEXA scanner without paying the entire equipment cost upfront
• Set up a new diagnostic service
• Upgrade existing diagnostic equipment
• Expand bone-density testing capabilities
• Manage the cost of additional medical equipment
• Plan repayments over a suitable tenure
• Preserve available funds for other operational requirements

Check your eligibility for Medical Equipment Finance from Bajaj Finance and fund your DEXA scanner purchase with a suitable financing option.