(file photo/Vernon Matters Staff)

By Pete McIntyre

cutting-edge technology

New radiology suite opens at Kelowna General Hospital

Aug 8, 2023 | 3:30 PM

Patients from around the Interior Health region are expected to benefit from a new interventional radiology suite at Kelowna General Hospital.

The new facility, which cost $9.6 million, is designed to offer minimally invasive procedures for the diagnosis, treatment of various medical conditions such as problems with blood vessels, like blood clots; cancer care; inserting intravenous tubes deep into the body to deliver medicine; procedures to stop internal bleeding and supporting patients with kidney disease.

“Interventional radiology is a transformative medical discipline that merges cutting-edge imaging technology with minimally invasive procedures, empowering physicians to precisely target and treat diseases with unparalleled precision and effectiveness,” Dr. Kevin Beckner, medical imaging medical director, Interior Health, said.

“Advancements in IR have significantly reduced risk, pain, recovery and the use of general anesthesia, while also providing a less expensive option to surgery or other alternatives.”

Since installation of the previous IR equipment at KGH in 2009, the practice of IR has evolved, with new procedures now being performed on an outpatient basis so fewer patients require a hospital stay.

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Equipped with the latest and most advanced IR technology, Interior Health said the suite represents a significant leap forward in patient care and sets the stage for future advancements in this type of service.

Of the $9.6 million cost, the KGH Foundation contributed $4.7 million, the province $3.1 million and the Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District provided $1.8 million.

“There are many good stories to share about how the community continues to support advancements at KGH and this is one of them,” Allison Young, CEO, KGH Foundation, said. “The opening of the new IR suite is great news. It means access to state-of-the-art equipment to provide quality care to patients. We, along with our interventional radiology teams, are thrilled.”

Gord Milsom, vice-chair of the Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District, said the new IR suite is a significant leap forward in patient care at KGH, using precise imaging to administer effective treatments.

“Our region’s funding commitment for this project underscores the Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District’s dedication to health and well-being. We know this suite will deliver high-quality medical services, helping prevent disease and improve quality of life for residents within our Central Okanagan community,” Milsom commented.