New first-of-its-kind CT scanner in Canada at HHS
HAMILTON, ON – A new computed tomography (CT) scanner at Hamilton Health Sciences’ (HHS) McMaster University Medical Centre (MUMC) is the first of its kind in Canada. The new CT is faster and produces better images to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
“To be the first hospital in Canada to have this CT machine shows that we value research, innovation, and learning when doing equipment replacement,” says Eric Ricker, manager of diagnostic imaging at MUMC. “The new technology and features allow us to expand our services and stay current with the latest trends. Being a show site for this new equipment and allowing our staff and patients the ability to use it is one of the ways HHS stands out as a leading hospital.”
Every patient who comes to MUMC, whether adult or pediatric, will have access to the new CT. “The new machine will run 24/7, allowing us to use the newest technology for emergency and outpatients,” says Nicole Koopman, registered X-ray technologist in CT.
DI technologists will now also be able to stay in the room with a patient while setting up the scan on a hand-held tablet.
In addition to this innovative CT scanner, the DI unit has undergone renovations and been outfitted with additional new equipment over the last year including a new mobile X-ray machine, a new X-ray room with new equipment, three new ultrasound rooms, a new ultrasound machine and a new MRI machine with “whisper” technology. Another MRI machine is scheduled to arrive this July, with a third to come later in 2022.
Better imaging and improved wait times for patients are also some of the additional benefits of this newer technology. “We will be able to accommodate more outpatient ultrasound requests, reducing current wait times for patients,” says Tracey Pow-Herrity, senior ultrasound technologist at MUMC. “The new equipment allows us to remain current and provide newer imaging techniques that we were not able to provide previously. We can now share additional information with doctors, who can then provide improved care for patients.”
“Knowing we have equipment that is reliable and has the latest technology is an amazing feeling,” says Ricker. All of the new equipment will be put into use immediately to help reduce wait times for DI services.
For additional information, please review the HHS Share article at https://www.hamiltonhealthsciences.ca/share/new-diagnostic-imaging-equipment-canada/.