Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Ministry of Health has officially commissioned a high-tech Digital CT Scanner at Mbabane Government Hospital and introduced two cutting-edge Olympus Visera Elite Laparoscopic Surgical Systems.
These innovations are set to revolutionize diagnostics and surgical care, placing Eswatini firmly on the map for modern healthcare excellence.
A New Era in Medical Imaging
The newly commissioned Siemens Somatom go.All Digital CT Scanner is equipped with Artificial Intelligence and a built-in camera that allows patient monitoring directly from the control room. The total investment, including room preparation and installation, exceeds E12.8 million. The machine will be monitored 24/7 by Siemens Germany, with two trained local engineers on standby for technical support, ensuring rapid intervention whenever necessary.
Radiologists have already undergone intensive training to ensure maximum utilization of the scanner. The hospital room housing the machine has also been specially modified to contain radiation emissions within safe limits prescribed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), prioritizing the safety of both patients and healthcare professionals.
Modern Surgery Now a Reality
In another exciting advancement, the hospital has acquired two Olympus Visera Elite Laparoscopic Surgical Systems, completing the equipment suite for the facility’s state-of-the-art operating theaters. These machines allow for highly efficient, minimally invasive surgeries, as they cut and seal simultaneously, significantly reducing surgical times and enhancing recovery.
“With this technology, we expect that patients who previously needed a month to recover after major surgery will now be discharged within a week,” said one senior surgeon at the hospital. To maximize the benefit of the equipment, surgeons will undergo six months of hands-on training at a local private hospital.
Words from the Principal Secretary
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Khanya Mabuza, described the CT scanner launch as a “significant milestone” and praised all the partners who contributed to the success of the project:
“This cutting-edge technology will enable our medical team to diagnose and treat patients more accurately and effectively, reducing wait times and improving health outcomes. It’s a vital tool for detecting and managing various health conditions,” said Mabuza.
He extended gratitude to the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development for the financial support, Microprojects for their technical assistance, and the vendor for timely delivery and training of staff.
Mabuza also appealed to all hospital staff to handle the equipment with care:
“May I plead with the users to take good care of the scan as it is expensive and an asset to the Ministry. The cost of the CT scan is E12 million excluding room preparation (E358,000), which is a huge amount given the country’s budgetary constraints.”
He concluded by officially declaring the CT scan facility open for use and encouraged the medical team to harness the full capabilities of the new equipment to serve the nation better.
A Leap Toward World-Class Healthcare
These developments mark a transformational leap forward for Eswatini’s healthcare sector. With improved diagnostic accuracy and safer, faster surgeries now possible within the public system, the country moves closer to its vision of accessible, high-quality medical care for all.
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