BC Cancer rolls out photon-counting CT scanner, a leap in technology

VANCOUVER – People in the province with cancer now have access to Canada’s most advanced CT scanner. The new scanner, installed and operational at BC Cancer – Vancouver, uses leading-edge photon-counting technology to deliver more accurate imaging with less radiation exposure to patients.

“B.C. is once again leading the nation in integrating transformative medical technology and tools, helping to achieve better health outcomes and save lives,” said Josie Osborne, minister of health. “This first-in-Canada CT scanner is a significant milestone in our 10-year cancer action plan. By delivering more precise diagnostic imaging while reducing radiation exposure, we are improving cancer care and supporting people to live fuller, healthier lives – during cancer and beyond.”

Diagnostic imaging is a crucial component in a patient’s cancer journey, providing healthcare teams with the critical information they need for an accurate diagnosis and to create an effective and personalized treatment plan.

Compared to conventional CT scanners, photon-counting CT scanners deliver a higher resolution image with less radiation.
This new technology provides much more detailed information about a patient’s organs and tissues, enabling radiologists to visualize minute details with exceptional clarity.

“This first-in-Canada scanner is just one example of how, through B.C.’s 10-Year Cancer Action Plan, we are integrating leading-edge technology and the latest innovations to improve the experience of our patients and help them to live the best-possible lives with and beyond cancer,” said Dr. Kim Chi, executive vice-president and chief medical officer, BC Cancer.

The new scanner at BC Cancer – Vancouver will perform more than 14,000 CT scans annually. It replaces a conventional CT scanner that had reached the end of its lifespan after being in operation for 12 years.

“It is truly great to see the partnership between BC Cancer, the Provincial Medical Imaging Office and BC Cancer Foundation enable us to bring the most powerful diagnostic CT scanner to the people of B.C.,” said Dr. Maureen O’Donnell, executive vice-president, provincial clinical policy, planning and partnerships, Provincial Health Services Authority. “This was truly a team effort from our frontline diagnostic imaging staff and everyone involved.”

The total project cost was $6 million, with $3 million provided by the BC Cancer Foundation and $3 million from the province. BC Cancer Foundation’s contribution was fully funded by the Leon Judah Blackmore Foundation.

“The BC Cancer Foundation is proud to invest in groundbreaking technology – like this first-in-Canada scanner – that will save lives,” said Sarah Roth, president & CEO, BC Cancer Foundation.

B.C.’s 10-Year Cancer Action Plan outlines steps to better prevent, detect and treat cancers and deliver improved care, while preparing for growing needs, including building more cancer centres in B.C., adding new diagnostic equipment, hiring new physicians and clinical support staff and expanding cancer screening programs.