Hologic’s Horizon DXA given approval in Canada

BEDFORD, Mass. – Hologic, Inc. announced that Health Canada has granted a medical device license for Horizon, a new DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) imaging platform that assists in the assessment of three critical health problems – osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Horizon was launched in the U.S. and other international markets in 2013. It is now available in Canada through an exclusive distributor partnership with Christie Innomed Inc.

The Horizon DXA platform is designed to offer improved precision, stability and throughput over current products. New, clinically relevant built-in enhancements include a high-resolution multi-element detector array with ceramic detector technology for improved bone mapping and image quality; a high-frequency pulsing power supply that offers greater system stability and future flexibility; and a filter drum to support future development initiatives.

Built on Hologic proprietary technologies, Horizon offers expanded technical capabilities, workflow efficiencies and improved design components to meet clinician needs now and into the future.

The Hologic Horizon DXA platform offers the following features:

• A Single Energy Femur Exam designed to allow clinicians to visualize potential atypical femur fractures, an unusual form of femur fracture which can occur as the result of bisphosphonate use.
• High Definition Instant Vertebral Assessment (IVA-HD) capability for significantly improved detection of vertebral fractures.
• An Abdominal Aortic Calcification feature through Hologic’s IVA-HD technology designed to enable clinicians to visualize abdominal aortic calcifications, a significant predictor of cardiovascular disease.
• Advanced Body Composition assessment with visceral fat estimation to assist in the evaluation of metabolic health.

“Since its introduction in 2013, Hologic’s Horizon DXA platform has set a new standard for image quality and operational efficiency,” said Peter J. Valenti III, Hologic Division President, Breast and Skeletal Health Solutions. “Horizon combines a wealth of proprietary, advanced technologies that provide clinicians with the most accurate diagnostic information available. Moving forward we remain committed to providing technologies that will differentiate Hologic from our competitors and help women and men throughout the world lead healthier, stronger lives.”

The global impact of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and obesity-related problems is serious and costly. It is estimated one in two women and one in four men over age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture during their lifetime.1 Approximately 17 million people die from cardiovascular disease each year.2 The incidence of obesity has increased 82% in the past 20 years.3 and it is estimated that 2.8 million people die each year from complications related to this disease.4 Together, these health issues represent a significant cost to national healthcare systems and impact millions of lives.

About Hologic, Inc.

Hologic, Inc. is a leading developer, manufacturer and supplier of premium diagnostic products, medical imaging systems, and surgical products, with an emphasis on serving the healthcare needs of women. The Company operates four core business units focused on diagnostics, breast health, GYN surgical and skeletal health. With a comprehensive suite of technologies and a robust research and development program, Hologic is committed to improving lives. The Company is headquartered in Massachusetts. For more information, visit www.hologic.com.

About Christie Innomed, Inc.

Christie InnoMed Inc. is proudly Canadian owned, operated and has been providing quality medical imaging solutions since 1954. We have developed exclusive distribution partnerships with global market leading companies such as HOLOGIC. With our leading-edge diagnostic imaging solutions and dedicated local service personnel, CII has established a strong and committed customer base across Canada that includes Hospitals, Universities and Clinics.