AIIMS-P upgrades nuclear medicine unit

Patna: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Patna on Friday inaugurated a state-of-the-art SPECT-CT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography–Computed Tomography) Gamma Camera at its department of nuclear medicine, marking a major expansion of advanced diagnostic services for Bihar and eastern India.Chief guest Prof (Brig.) Dr Raju Agarwal described the installation as a forward-looking step that integrates advanced medical technology with public healthcare delivery. He said the availability of hybrid imaging at a government institution would ensure more equitable access to high-end diagnostics and reduce the need for patients to seek referrals outside the state.The newly commissioned SPECT-CT system combines functional imaging through SPECT with anatomical imaging through CT, enabling precise localization and characterization of disease.

The fused modality is expected to significantly improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making across oncology, cardiology, neurology, orthopaedics and endocrinology, including thyroid and parathyroid disorders.

Officials said the system will aid faster diagnosis, accurate staging and individualized treatment planning.Dr Pankaj Kumar, associate professor and HoD of nuclear medicine and organising chairman of the programme, said the department aims to build a comprehensive nuclear medicine hub at AIIMS Patna.

He said the facility was established after fulfilling Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) radiation safety norms and guidelines, and would enhance clinical services while supporting postgraduate training, academic initiatives and research.Medical superintendent Dr Anup Kumar said the commissioning underscores AIIMS Patna’s continued growth as a centre of excellence in super-specialty diagnostics and reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to patient-centric care.The event was attended by senior faculty members and administrators, including Dr Ruchi Sinha, Dr

Tribhuwan Kumar

, Dr) Kranti Bhavana, Dr Amit Raj and deputy director (administration) Nilotpal Bal, along with residents, nursing officers and staff.