U.S Naval Hospital Guam (USNH Guam) completed installation of a new 72 kilowatt computed tomography (CT) scanner Feb. 13, with a second unit scheduled for installation in the coming months as part of a planned modernization effort.
 
The new equipment replaces a legacy CT scanner that completed its scheduled service life. The upgrade ensures uninterrupted imaging capability and directly supports the command’s ongoing trauma capability efforts by minimizing potential downtime and reducing the need to divert emergency patients.
 
“Having a backup CT unit significantly strengthens our ability to maintain continuous emergency and trauma services,” said Cmdr. Carl Powell, director of clinical support services, which includes the radiology department. “This directly enhances patient safety and operational readiness”.
 
CT scans take highly detailed pictures of the inside of the body, helping doctors quickly find and treat injuries and illnesses. These new machines use advanced computer software to create sharper, clearer images while exposing patients to less radiation.
 
The new primary system has a wider opening and supports patients up to 675 pounds, expanding access for trauma and bariatric patients. The platform’s artificial intelligence-driven workflow reduces patient positioning time and overall exam duration, speeding up the entire process, which is critical in emergency settings.

 
The second unit will further enhance cardiac and trauma imaging with its faster speed and sharper images, allowing USNH Guam's medical team to make highly accurate diagnoses while using smaller, safer amounts of radiation and contrast dye.
 
Installation of the first unit wrapped up this week, with clinical protocol development and applications training scheduled for Feb. 18–27. The installation process for each scanner takes approximately two to three weeks. Patient care was not interrupted during the transition, as the previous unit remained operational throughout installation.
 
The modernization was coordinated by Lt. Cmdr. Jason Cole, radiation health officer, with  Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Andy Kim assisting in day-to-day scheduling to ensure seamless delivery and installation of the new CT machine.  
 
Upon completion of installation, Cole verified that the scanner functions safely, meets manufacturer specifications, and complies with Joint Commission standards while Lt. Cmdr. Kyle Keinath oversaw clinical integration and optimization for patient care. All radiology and CT technologists will receive on-site applications training to ensure flawless integration into clinical operations.
 
This investment, valued at more than $1 million per unit, these systems are designed to save money and protect patient care. Keeping the equipment up and running avoids the high costs of transporting emergency patients elsewhere for scans. Additionally, the technology automatically monitors its own hardware to schedule maintenance before any technical issues can arise.
 
The new CT platforms meet Joint Commission standards and position USNH Guam to deliver high-quality, low-dose imaging in support of active-duty service members, retirees, and their families.
 
“These systems ensure we can provide reliable, advanced imaging anytime,” Powell said. “They strengthen our trauma capability and directly support the readiness of the force.”