Dr Gray’s Hospital finds familiarity and ease with CT scanner software
Dr Gray’s Hospital, Elgin, part of NHS Grampian, has replaced its Aquilion 64 with a state-of-the-art Aquilion Prime SP 160 CT scanner from Canon Medical Systems.
Radiography manager Mark Shannon said: “Having for many years valued the quality of service and support from Canon for various modalities, it was clear to the team that the Canon CT range was going to be considered for our replacement scanner. In the ten years since our last scanner was installed, the progress in software development within the industry in general has added considerable options to access high end functionality to all modalities, not just CT.”
Dr Gray’s is a district general hospital and only has a single CT scanner. Shannon explained: “During any installation we have to ensure a cross- sectional imaging service is available at all times. We also have to remain flexible for the needs of elective and unplanned examinations, and to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and staff.”
Instead of a trailer in a car park Canon offered to install an interim service in the department. This provided a range of examinations to maintain the service and allowed the workflow within the safe environment of the department to be maintained.
“Following the installation of our replacement scanner, the response from patients, staff and referrers has been highly positive,” continued Shannon. “Not only does the new software platform provide ease and familiarity of acquisition, but applying additional functions was an intuitive process. On a practical level, the larger bore and lateral couch movement contribute to a less stressful and physically demanding day, as well as allowing patients to feel more relaxed.”
Picture: Radiographer Deborah Searle, charge nurse Eilidh Jackson, consultant radiologist Dr Struan Wilkie, radiographer Lyndsay Smith, radiography manager Mark Shannon, radiographers Nicola Goodman, Anne Wood, Rachael Brown, Catherine Dyer and Arlene More with Canon Medical Systems account manager Iain Gray.
Published on page 2 of the August issue of RAD Magazine.
