It means more complex spinal and neurosurgery cases can be treated at Epworth Geelong, rather than patients having to be transferred to Melbourne.
In Barwon and southwest Victoria, brain and spinal surgery has been given a boost with the arrival of a $2.4-million dollar CT scanner to be used in operating theatres at Epworth Geelong.
In a first for the region's hospitals, the intraoperative CT theatre scanner is combined with navigation technology to guide the surgeons with access to real time imaging during complex operations.
Leonie Lloyd, Executive General Manager, Epworth Geelong said the new scanner will allow more complex procedures to be safely undertaken.
"The arrival of the intraoperative CT scanner at Epworth Geelong is a significant boost to healthcare for our region," Ms Lloyd said.
"It means more complex spinal and neurosurgery cases can be treated at Epworth Geelong, rather than patients having to be transferred to Melbourne. This technology means better outcomes for our patients."
Safer, quicker surgery
The intraoperative CT scanner can be moved between theatres as required, allowing more flexibility for surgeons.
The scanner, combined with surgical navigation, will aid neurosurgeons including Mr Nick Hall and Mr Rana Dhillon.
"This innovative fusion of intra operative CT and precision navigation will expand the scope and accuracy of complex spinal and brain surgery for Epworth Geelong patients," Mr Hall said.
"Now, surgery is safer, quicker and suitable for a broader range of patients. This enables less postoperative scans and reduces the chance of revision surgery."
"This is the best technology available to aid surgeons to achieve the best operative outcomes."
Theatre staff are undertaking training on use of the new scanner.
