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LEVEL  PRECISION

Dr. Jens Heidenreich, head, neuroradiology & head and neck sections at the QEII’s Department of Diagnostic Imaging (left) and Dr. David P. Morris, QEII neurotologist, show off the new cone beam CT scanner at the QEII.

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LEVEL  PRECISION

Dr. Jens Heidenreich, head, neuroradiology & head and neck sections at the QEII’s Department of Diagnostic Imaging (left) and Dr. David P. Morris, QEII neurotologist, show off the new cone beam CT scanner at the QEII.


$430,000

TO SUPPORT THE ACQUISITION OF THIS FIRST-IN-ATLANTIC CANADA TECHNOLOGY

In October 2025, thanks to QEII Foundation donors, the first scans using a new, specialized scanner were taken at the QEII. The first cone beam CT scanner in Atlantic Canada uses a coneshaped beam of X-ray light to generate highly detailed images — down to a fraction of a millimetre with high resolution.

Some of the smallest bones in the human body are found in the head and neck area, such as the temporal bone, which houses the middle and inner ear structure and is critical for hearing and balance. The cone beam CT is specifically designed for obtaining high quality images from such small areas.

The new scanner also provides benefits that enhance patient-centred care, including lower radiation dosage for the patient and a more streamlined, efficient treatment process.

WHAT DONORS WILL MAKE POSSIBLE:

Reducing wait times for head and neck patients to four months from more than a year, including reducing backlogged appointments by 40 per cent.

Ensuring patients are triaged to the appropriate imaging technology for their needs.

Providing same-day imaging for patients attending a clinic appointment, reducing their number of trips to Halifax from across the Maritimes.

When we need to see a small section of the temporal bone in exquisite detail is where the cone beam scanner shows its true potential. It allows the surgeon to have a more informed discussion with patients about their treatment options.

Dr. David P. Morris, QEII neurotologist