Pims says its CT machine 'remains functional' following reports of failure to conduct Imran's heart scan

Islamabad: The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) confirmed on Tuesday that its CT machine remains fully functional and continues to provide diagnostic services, despite claims that it was unavailable during a visit by jailed PTI founder Imran Khan last week. When Imran was admitted to Pims for an eye procedure and other diagnostic examinations, doctors recommended a CT coronary angiography (CTA) to assess his heart health.

However, Pims officials reportedly said the CTA facility was not available, causing Imran to be transferred back to Adiala Jail without the scan. This scan would have helped detect coronary blockages and evaluate the risk of a heart attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif responded by forming an inquiry committee to investigate the situation.

The Pims administration clarified that the CT machine, installed in 2022, is fully functional and supports diagnostic services. They emphasized that imaging investigations are conducted based on clinical assessment, specialist advice, patient safety, and medical protocols. A senior Pims doctor stated that around a dozen CTA scans had been performed before the statement was released.

Following the report of the CTA failure, PTI demanded Imran's transfer to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, a request subsequently approved by the Supreme Court on August 18. PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram cited government medical board recommendations, noting that a Pims cardiologist had also recommended the CTA test on August 1 due to Imran's fluctuating blood pressure, palpitations, headaches, restlessness, and the potential cardiac risks associated with his age and prolonged isolation.