Hospital tests new CT scan

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital is testing a machine that will put it on the cutting edge of diagnostic imaging. The new $1.6-million CT scan builds a 3-D image of internal organs.

Older machines, commonly called CAT scans, were only able to take flat images.

The new CT scan merges a series of X-rays, called slices, into a detailed picture taken from different angles. And it does it quickly.

"It can acquire images so fast, it can actually take 64 slices of the heart in one heart beat, it's that fast. Then another 64 in next beat, it's just spectacular stuff," said Dr. Doug Neilson.

This sample image shows a blocked blood vessel

The new machine provides amazing detail. It builds the heart, brain, lungs, and even individual blood vessels.

Neilson said the machine can point out a blocked blood vessel eliminating the exploratory surgery that might have been used in the past.

The new machine also now takes seconds instead of minutes. It can take a picture of a human brain in five seconds, and scan the entire body in 30. Staff at the QEH said that's great news for young children who used to be sedated in order for them to lie still long enough for the old machine to do its work.

Donations cover the cost

The machine was paid for through donations. Wilma Hambly of the Friends for Life Campaign said the group expected to raise the $1.6-million over two years, it took less than one.

"It tells us, Islanders are passionate about their hospital and their health care. And that Islanders are very generous. Very generous indeed."

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital is training staff to use the new machine. Patients will begin using it in the middle of July.