Surgical teams within the SWASH+ consortium of NHS trusts are experiencing significant improvements in orthopaedic planning thanks to Sectra’s innovative technology. This advancement is noted for its ability to:

• Save valuable time for surgeons
• Reduce unexpected challenges and clinical risks during surgeries
• Cut multi-disciplinary team (MDT) preparation time by 50%
• Enhance decision-making prior to procedures

David Howard, an orthopaedic surgical practitioner at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, shares insights on these developments.

Enhanced Pre-Operative Planning

David Howard recently utilized a new pre-operative 3D planning tool to prepare for a complex trauma operation. This tool allowed him to virtually reconstruct the patient’s fracture and present it during a trauma meeting. He stated:

“I showed them the 3D reconstructed fracture. With a click, we reset the fragments to show the original trauma, allowing us to prioritize fragments and correct angulation before the first incision.”

The response from the surgical team was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing surprise at the capabilities of this technology.

Efficiency in Workflow

Howard emphasized the significant efficiencies gained through the new system. For instance, preparing for an osteotomy used to take a minimum of 10 minutes with previous systems, but now he can create multiple plans in the same timeframe with Sectra’s technology. He noted:

“The workflow is amazing, there’s a massive time and efficiency saving.”

MDT meetings have also seen remarkable time savings, with team members saving up to 50% of their time compared to previous methods.

Improved Surgical Outcomes

The enhanced preparation has led to better decision-making and reduced risks during surgeries. Howard explained that having organized images and validated data before MDT meetings allows for a more relaxed and controlled environment, ultimately benefiting patient care.

Future-Ready Solutions

The collaboration with Sectra has empowered the surgical teams to confidently handle complex cases without relying on costly third-party solutions. Howard remarked:

“Sectra has given us the confidence and capability to bring high-level planning in-house, delivering both clinical and cost-effective benefits.”

This comprehensive solution is seen as a significant step forward for the orthopaedic department within the SWASH+ consortium, paving the way for future advancements in surgical planning and execution.