“Whilst the waiting list remains a huge challenge, this demonstrates a significant step to address the increasing demand until more theatre capacity is achieved, and I would like to thank all staff involved for their hard work and care,” said Mr George Cooper, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. 

The ward was opened to increase capacity for hip, knee and shoulder surgeries, among many others. 

“Having a dedicated elective unit for orthopaedic procedures has enabled such a large number of patients to be treated this year,” said Dr Peter Rabey, Guernsey’s Medical Director. 

“While some elective surgery still runs the risk of postponement due to staffing issues, there is no doubt that the numbers of orthopaedic cases completed would have been far fewer in the absence of the dedicated unit.  

“The multi-disciplinary team approach from pre-assessment to discharge has improved patient experience, reduced the average length of stay for joint surgery and has removed 463 patients off the orthopaedic waiting list.” 

Pictured: Dr Rabey.

“The de Havilland unit has provided us with much needed ring-fenced beds for elective surgery within a specialist and dedicated unit,” continued Mr Cooper. 

“This is to reduce infection which can be very serious for orthopaedic patients and follows best practice in orthopaedic surgery to optimise outcomes. This also means that these beds cannot be used for other procedures in the hospital which means elective orthopaedic procedures can be prioritised.  

“The team has spent the last year refining processes and procedures to maximise the experience for our patients. The Medical Specialist Group is really pleased with the numbers we have been able to see go through the unit in the last 12 months.”