The Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, has faced challenges due to the lack of a functioning Computed Tomography Scan (CT scan) machine for five years. This has impacted patient care quality and medical student training. Plans are underway to acquire a new CT scan machine within three months. Patients needing CT scans have been referred to external facilities for the test.
A CT scan is vital for diagnosing various medical conditions like brain tumors, fractures, and infections. The non-functional CT scan machine at the hospital’s Radio Diagnostic Department has been undergoing repairs, causing inconvenience to patients. The cost of repairing the machine is substantial, prompting consideration of purchasing a new one.
Other teaching hospitals in Lagos like the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, also lack CT scan machines. However, facilities like the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, National Orthopaedic Hospital Igbobi-Lagos, and Federal Medical Centre, Ebute-Metta have functional CT scan machines. LUTH previously acquired a cutting-edge 128-slice Aquillon CT scanner in 2013.
The Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, confirmed the need for a new CT scan machine due to the old one’s prolonged use. Plans are in motion to procure a replacement, with renovations already in progress. In the interim, in-patients can undergo CT scans at a sister institution, ensuring their safety. Outpatients are encouraged to have their scans done externally. The hospital aims to enhance patient care by eliminating the need for external referrals within three months.