Analysis of the initial 100 scans from the first CT scanner deployed by the British armed forces in a land environment.

AIMS

To examine usage of the first CT scanner installed in a UK field hospital, BMH Shaibah, over a 13 month period.

METHODS

All request forms and reports for the first 100 studies were analysed retrospectively.

RESULTS

An average of 7.7 scans per month was performed. Trauma was the most common indication followed by urinary symptoms and headache. Significant pathology was diagnosed in many cases.

CONCLUSION

A deployed CT scanner can make a significant contribution to the capability of a field hospital, shaping both the management and disposal of patients. A more easily deployable scanner will be needed in future.