The objective was to streamline the imaging procedure to allow several specialists to focus on patient needs simultaneously. Traditionally, imaging and surgery are housed in separate locations within a building, but in this new facility, imaging and surgery can be undertaken in the same space. One of the key objectives was to bring the equipment to the patient, increasing safety and comfort at critical times.

Treating patients in one place
The facility provides the world’s most advanced equipment in one place, including a ceiling-mounted movable MRI scanner, X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and PET. Below ground level, a cyclotron supplies PET scanners with radioactive isotopes. New operating rooms house advanced machines that perform diagnostics during operations without having to move the patient. Images are displayed on monitors in the room, allowing specialist clinicians to be in different locations and monitor the operation in real time.

Fit for the future design
The hospital is designed to adapt to future medical advances with robust and flexible solutions that will enable continuous changes in usability. The eight-storey building comprises two parts, each with its own power supply to ensure independent redevelopment if required in future renovations, and to provide full redundancy.

Proximity of imaging equipment
Key to the design was ensuring the unusual proximity of the operating rooms, as well as shielding against any interfering radiation. An optimum spatial structure was created to provide an effective workspace for clinicians and assure operational security for patients. Thorough instructions on installing key medical equipment were prepared at the design phase.

Conclusions
This world-class imaging and intervention centre provides Sweden with much greater capacity and state-of-the-art facilities for cancer research and development, faster diagnosis and treatment, reduced healing times, and minimally invasive surgery.