We are excited to announce the upgrade of a new CT scanner for the Nelson region, meaning patients will be able to access world-class scanning services locally, without the need to travel to Christchurch or Wellington to be seen for cardiac examinations. The scanner provides private imaging to the whole Nelson region.
Pacific Radiology Nelson Regional Manager Craig McQuillan is excited to launch the new scanner, saying it is a major asset to the wider Nelson community:
"We have invested in the latest cutting-edge equipment to align with our vision to provide world-class radiology, locally. Our patients and referrers in the Nelson region can now enjoy easy access to world-leading cardiac scanning services right on their doorstep."
Known as the Go Top CT scanner and sourced all the way from leading German manufacturer Siemens, the new machine incorporates several ground-breaking features to improve the patient experience and provide faster, more accurate information to referring doctors. Our experienced imaging staff intend to use the high-end scanner to spend less time in the control room, to stay beside patients longer, and to provide closer care, ensuring that patient comfort is at the centre of each examination.
CT stands for Computed Tomography and combines a series of x-ray images taken from different angles around the body, creating cross-sectional images known as ‘slices’. The scanner is an x-ray machine hooked up to a powerful computer, but unlike a standard x-ray, it is not limited to bones. It can also ‘see’ soft tissue, blood vessels and even air inside the body – all in rich detail. A CT scan can be used to visualise nearly all parts of the body, providing referring doctors with valuable insights into a patient’s health and wellbeing in a way that x-rays alone cannot.
At Pacific Radiology, we usually use a CT scanner for a range of advanced procedures. The process is non-invasive, fast and painless – and the team of highly skilled CT Technologists will support you every step of the way. The new scanner is capable of imaging cardiac coronary artery and calcium scoring examinations with improved diagnostic confidence, meaning patients are in the best possible hands. This involves examining the arteries of the heart, looking for narrowing caused by plaque build-up.
The scanner’s new features include a faster scanning time and a significant reduction in the dose of radiation. The scanner also comes with an increased maximum table load of 307kg, meaning we can now accommodate more patients in comfort using modern ergonomics. The CT Technologists control the scanner with a tablet and a remote control, while the gentle voice is designed to guide and relax our patients.
The CT scanner offers smart solutions to help our imaging team focus on each patient and make the working experience enjoyable. Statistics collected by Siemens in Germany already show significant increases in the speed of patient preparation, positive patient experience and satisfaction, and greater freedom of movement for performing Technologists, enabling Pacific Radiology to remain at the forefront of CT innovation.
The new CT scanner is now in operation in Nelson.
