A brand new Gamma Camera (nuclear imaging unit), valued at Rs. 154 million, has been installed at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children (LRH) in Colombo to enhance diagnostic services, especially for pediatric kidney diseases.
The advanced equipment, funded by the Ministry of Health, was officially integrated into medical services yesterday under the leadership of Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe.
This modern diagnostic unit replaces a 20-year-old gamma camera that frequently malfunctioned, forcing the hospital to rely on the National Hospital for critical scans during breakdowns.
Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa had earlier directed officials to expedite the installation of a new unit after hospital staff raised the need during a recent inspection visit. Following these instructions, the new system was successfully installed and made operational at LRH.
Similar gamma camera units are currently in operation at other major state hospitals, including the National Hospital in Colombo, Karapitiya Teaching Hospital, and the Peradeniya Teaching Hospital, significantly supporting the efficiency of patient care.
Radiologist Dr. Nayana Samarasinghe noted that the new gamma camera will provide accurate and efficient diagnostic services, improving treatment outcomes for children across the country.
LRH Director Dr. Pradeep Wijesinghe expressed special thanks to the Health Minister and the government for addressing this critical need, stating that the new technology will help deliver high-quality diagnosis and care to children nationwide.
A team of medical professionals, including specialists, doctors, and nurses, were present at the official commissioning of the new equipment. (Newswire)