Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has demanded that jailed party founder Imran Khan undergo a CT coronary angiography at Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad. The demand follows reports that doctors could not conduct the recommended test during his recent visit to PIMS.
Imran was taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) early Friday for an eye procedure and diagnostic tests. Doctors reportedly recommended a cardiac CTA, but hospital staff said the facility was unavailable.
PTI Criticizes Failure to Conduct CTA
After completing other examinations, authorities reportedly returned Imran to Adiala jail without conducting the CTA. The test can help doctors detect coronary blockages and assess potential cardiac risks.
Doctors clarified that conventional angiography at the PIMS Cardiac Centre differs from CTA. While conventional angiography uses a catheter, CTA relies on a CT scanner and does not require the same invasive procedure.
PIMS has operated a 128-slice CT scanner in its radiology department since March 2022. Doctors said the scanner can perform CTA and suggested that authorities should have referred Imran to the radiology department.
Inquiry Committee Probes PIMS Medical Arrangements
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the reports on Saturday and formed an inquiry committee. The Establishment Division secretary will lead the committee and determine the facts and responsibility.
On Sunday, PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram again demanded Imran’s immediate transfer to Shifa International Hospital. He also referred to a Supreme Court direction issued on August 18 regarding the former premier’s medical treatment.
Akram said a government medical board examined Imran on August 10. He added that a PIMS cardiologist had recommended CT coronary angiography on August 1 due to fluctuating blood pressure, palpitations, headaches, restlessness and potential cardiac complications.
