On August 14, Patricia and Gerald Turpanjian and their family previewed the new Interventional Radiology (IR) suite in the Torrance Memorial Lundquist Tower.

The Turpanjian’s $5.1 million gift supported the build-out of this new suite, which has significantly expanded Torrance Memorial’s IR infrastructure and services. Now equipped with the most advanced technology, George So, MD, demonstrated the biplane imaging technology, which creates a road map for treating the precise location of the disease. With much appreciation for their generosity, members of the IR team, hospital administration and the Turpanjian family enjoyed a reception following the demonstration. •

Impact on the future

Biplane imaging is one of the most advanced interventional medical imaging technologies.

Hospitals make a considerable investment when developing and renovating an IR suite. The hard costs are extensive, involving an expenditure of $2.3 million or more. These must be added to the cost of imaging equipment, which can range from $2 million to $3.5 million depending on the features desired.

Identifying the need and scope of the project is top priority. Involved in the planning process are the interventional radiologists and endovascular neurosurgeons who help define the types of space, equipment and processes needed to perform them.

Costs

• IR biplane advanced technology and equipment: $3.1 million
• IR suite design and construction: $1.4 million
• IT infrastructure - computer systems, ultrasound equipment and digital monitors: $.5 million
• Service contract (first year): $.1 million

TOTAL: $5.1M