Mangaluru: Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) marked a significant advancement in diagnostic care with the blessing and commissioning of the FLEXAVISION F4 Digital Fluoroscopy System on May 1, 2026.

The occasion coincided with the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker, adding spiritual significance to the introduction of this state-of-the-art medical technology aimed at enhancing patient care.

Blessing ceremony and inauguration

The event began with a Festal Mass and Rite of Blessing led by Rev. Fr. Vincent Vinod Saldanha, Manager, Codialbail Press, Yeyyadi. Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration along with other clergy members.

Following the Mass, the new radiography system was formally blessed and commissioned in the presence of hospital administrators, faculty, and staff.

Commitment to patient-centred care

In his address, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo dedicated the new facility to patient service, emphasising that the integration of advanced diagnostic technology will improve efficiency and streamline radiographic processes.

He highlighted that such developments are essential to cater to the increasing number of patients while maintaining high standards of care.

Introduction of advanced imaging technology

Prof. Dr. Ram Shenoy Basti, Head of the Department of Radio-diagnosis & Imaging, welcomed the gathering and provided insights into the capabilities of the FLEXAVISION F4 system.

He noted that the Shimadzu FLEXAVISION F4 is a compact, remote-controlled digital radiography and fluoroscopy system and is among the first of its kind in the region. The system supports a wide range of clinical applications, including gastrointestinal, orthopaedic, urological, paediatric, and emergency imaging.

Key features of FLEXAVISION F4

The newly installed system offers several advanced features:

  • Dual functionality with a detachable 17″×17″ wireless Flat Panel Detector for both fluoroscopy and general radiography
  • High-resolution imaging with 12-bit processing for enhanced clarity and contrast
  • Low-dose technology using pulsed fluoroscopy to minimise radiation exposure
  • Compact and flexible design for efficient patient positioning
  • Versatility across multiple diagnostic applications

These features enable accurate diagnosis while ensuring patient safety and comfort.

Presence of dignitaries

The ceremony was attended by Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator of FMMCH, and Rev. Fr. Nilesh Crasta, Administrator of Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital.

Faculty members, postgraduate students, and representatives including Mr. Sudhir Kumar Dubey from Shimadzu were also present on the occasion.

Advancing diagnostic excellence

The addition of the FLEXAVISION F4 system strengthens the Department of Radio-diagnosis & Imaging’s vision of becoming a state-of-the-art centre for affordable and advanced diagnostic services.

The department aims to combine innovative learning, ethical research, and patient-focused care to meet evolving healthcare needs.

Reinforcing healthcare innovation

The commissioning of this advanced radiography system underscores Father Muller Medical College Hospital’s commitment to integrating modern technology with compassionate healthcare delivery.

The initiative is expected to significantly enhance diagnostic capabilities, improve workflow efficiency, and provide better outcomes for patients across the region.