CT scanner upgrade

THE CT scanner at Lerwick’s Gilbert Bain Hospital has just had a £178,000 upgrade to extend its use beyond 2020.

The scanner was commissioned back in 2007 following an impressive local fund raising effort.

NHS Shetland said on Monday that a full replacement at a cost of £1.1 million would have been required by 2014/15 as technology had moved on.

However, following discussions with the manufacturer upgrading the equipment from a 40 to 64 slice scanner was available at a much lower cost.

A spokeswoman said: “The upgrading of the scanner has reduced scan times and increased image quality.

“This will allow the scanning service to adhere to clinical best practice protocols and to keep up with current developments in CT. 

“The project came in on budget, within timescale and is a great improvement.”