Dr Dzulkefly (right) and Cheah standing beside the new PCCT scanner at Sunway Medical Centre. To demonstrate the machine’s highly detailed imagery, a hibiscus plant is being prepared for scanning. — LOW BOON TAT/The Star
ONE of the world’s most advanced computed tomography (CT) scanners is now available at a hospital in Selangor with an image clarity unlike anything consultants have seen before.
Since October, Sunway Medical Centre patients have had access to a photon-counting CT (PCCT) scanner, a next-generation imaging system that delivers faster, safer and more detailed results.
The system, developed by Siemens Healthineers, enables clinicians to detect subtle tissue differences, identify micro- lesions and assess organ structures with exceptional clarity while reducing radiation.
Sunway Healthcare Group president Datuk Lau Beng Long said: “We are empowering our clinicians with an advanced diagnostic tool that enhances precision, supports confident decision-making and improves patient comfort.
“The PCCT, the fourth CT scanner in the hospital, is priced at RM16mil, about four times more than a conventional one.”
He said over 1,000 patients had benefitted from it.
The response from radiologists, cardiologists and other specialists has been exceptional.
“Subtle findings that were previously difficult to detect are now visible, complex conditions are easier to interpret and improved image quality allows treatment decisions to be made faster and with greater confidence.
“This is exactly what our consultants want because the faster and more accurate the diagnosis, the sooner treatment can begin, leading to better patient outcomes,” he said during the launch at Sunway Sanctuary Suites in Subang Jaya.
He added that this was the reason behind the investment in the technology and making it accessible to Malaysians.
“Today, we want to strengthen our commitment to public- private partnerships.
“This goes beyond the PCCT scanner to include other facilities we have and we hope to collaborate with the Health Ministry, particularly in areas where the public healthcare system is overwhelmed.”
Also present at the launch were Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad and Sunway Group founder and chairman Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah.
Siemens Healthineers Malaysia managing director Siow Ai Li said the system represented over 15 years of research.
She said they had filed over 500 patents and collaborated closely with clinical partners to validate the technology.
“The PCCT is a breakthrough that has transformed diagnostic imaging worldwide.
“With advanced spectral imaging and artificial intelligence- enabled support tools, the system will deliver consistent high quality images across every scan.”
SMC senior consultant interventional radiologist Dr Adam Pany Abdullah said for patients, the system translated to earlier detection, more accurate diagnoses and better patient outcome.
“In cardiology, the coronary arteries can be clearly visualised, even in cases of heavy calcification,” he said.
“In neurology, the images provide excellent clarity of veins and precise delineation of small vessels, and in oncology, we are able to better characterise cancer tumours and monitor treatment response.”
