Patients at Epsom and St Helier Hospital will be screened for disease faster than before after a second computed tomography (CT) scanner was delivered to the site.

The machine was installed as part of a £1.2 million investment into the hospital.

Mina Deved, head of radiology services, said: “The investment in the new CT scanner is fantastic news for our patients. CT is a really valuable diagnostic tool, it is used for both emergencies and planned appointments, to help diagnose conditions, guide further tests and treatments for patients, and monitor existing conditions.

“A CT scan produces detailed images of many structures inside the body, including the internal organs, blood vessels and bones. These images can then be used to diagnose damage to bones, injuries to internal organs, problems with blood flow, strokes and cancer.

“The information we get from a CT scan can also help determine the stage of complex diseases, reduce the need for exploratory surgeries, and reduce the length of time someone spends in hospital.”