STAFF at Blackburn Royal Infirmary unveiled a new high tech gamma camera, which bosses hope will mean twice as many patients suffering from diseases such as cancer and coronary heart disease can be diagnosed.
The camera diagnoses patients by detecting a mildly radioactive substance which is injected into the patient and can tell at what their stage their disease is.
The camera is the second to be installed in the nuclear medicine department at the infirmary. In many cases it avoids the need for surgery and is considered low risk for patients.
Dr Robert Barker, clinical director for radiology services, said: "Nuclear medicine is a developing field and we have seen larger increases in demand for this type of service over recent years. The camera will be of great benefit to patients from East Lancashire and will ensure that waiting times are kept to a minimum."
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