A routine ‘CAT’ scan helped save Philip Turk’s life.
At 70, Philip Turk owns and runs a business that takes him to Europe, the United States and the Pacific Rim. Recently, his kidney stones threatened to slow him down. They were causing a great deal of pain – “like a mule kick in the back”, he says – until he had them treated at Toronto General Hospital.
Following his procedure, an ultrasound indicated the stones were gone but it had other, unwelcome news to tell – Philip was not in the clear. He immediately received a computerized axial tomography, or CAT scan, which uses a computer with X-rays to show cross-sectional views. The scan revealed a cancerous tumour on his right kidney.
Medical imaging radiologist Dr. John Kachura performed an image-guided, minimally invasive procedure on Friday, April 16, 2004. Philip went home the same day and was back at work on Monday. A follow-up CAT scan confirmed the complete removal of the tumour.
“I had read about how radiology could treat tumours, but when I had it, I couldn’t believe how painless the procedure was”, says Philip. “I had the absolute best of care, from start to finish – and that was only eight weeks! I am blessed.”
Toronto General Hospital and Toronto Western Hospital are renowned for pioneering medical imaging. Our imaging researchers have designed state-of-the-art systems that provide fast, accurate diagnostic images. They have also developed and use innovative medical imaging technology that plays a key role in delivering non-invasive, life-saving treatments – resulting in shorter recovery times.
Each year, tens of thousands of patients depend on our Medical Imaging Program for the best in specialized care. World-class interventional radiologists apply their expertise, conduct advanced research, and train the next generation of medical imaging specialists.
