First In India – Mumbai’s Boxed in CT Scan Facility

A Boxed in CT Scan facility was installed at the jumbo COVID-19 center at Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) grounds. It is a unique solution to diagnose and manage COVID-19 patients developed by Wipro GE Healthcare’s. This ‘CT in a Box’ set up is part of joint Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by PNB Housing Finance, Larsen & Toubro, SNC-Lavalin in association with Wipro-GE healthcare. This joint CSR effort was facilitated by NGO partner, United Way of Bengaluru.

What is “CT in a Box”?

‘CT in a Box’ is Wipro GE Healthcare’s turnkey innovative solution providing accelerated access to CT diagnostic solutions in situations requiring increased/isolated CT scans like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Basically, a chest CT scans diagnose the severity of viral infection in Covid patients. This CT in a box with just 16 seconds do lung screening, advanced low dose protocols and emergency patient scan mode, this CT is well-positioned to serve healthcare professionals and patients with fast and immediate results. The ‘CT in a Box’ is customisable with other GE Healthcare CTs as well.

This AERB (Atomic Energy Regulatory Board) approved solution has two parts:

1. A CT machine to diagnose and treat COVID-19 suspected patients; and
2. An insulated box that houses it.

This box is specially designed and fabricated with safety features and aids in faster decontamination. The cabin further has separate entry and exit points for staff and patients ensuring almost no physical contact, minimising secondary infection.

Features of ‘CT in a Box’

• This India designed and developed shielded box is made of 4mm thick corrugated steel.
• The insulated box comes with radiation protection, fireproofing and sound insulation.
• The box measuring 40ft x 11ft x 9.5ft also comes with air conditioning, electronic cabling, floor finishing, lights and fixtures.

It comes with enhanced safety features and decontamination measures as follows:

• The gantry is remotely operated, thereby isolating the medical staff at the console from the patient
• HEPA filters for air exchange and maintaining air pressure differential which allows for faster space readiness for the next scan
  UV Lights for faster decontamination by killing or inactivating microorganisms.
• Lead lining and radiation protection for those in and around the Box
• Airtight doors and sealed glass panel for added safety
  Wipro GE Healthcare is also providing real-time online application support using Digital Expert- a comprehensive solution that utilises modern digital technology to provide on-demand application support and training for clinical teams.
• Technicians working on the CT are also assisted with additional cleaning and disinfection protocols.

Information and image source: Express Health Care