New hybrid theatre transforms vascular surgery and recovery

Combining a full operating room with advanced imaging equipment, the hybrid theatre enables surgeons to perform a wider range of minimally invasive procedures.

The technology also allows patients to safely undergo multiple procedures in a single day, reducing the need to transfer between departments, spend extended periods in hospital and go under repeated anaesthesia, said Prof Wendy Brown, The Alfred’s Surgical Services Program Director.

“Having high-quality imaging on hand means we can operate with greater precision and, in many cases, avoid some of the large incisions that were once needed – so there’s less chance of complication and more chance of a shorter recovery,” Prof Brown said.

“With this technology, we can see what’s happening and make decisions as we go, including being able to transition to a more complex open procedure if needed because we have all the capabilities of a fully equipped operating theatre in the same room.”

Key to this capability is the C-arm, a flexible imaging system suspended from the ceiling that can move over or under any part of the patient, delivering high-definition, three-dimensional images in real time.

Head of Vascular Surgery at The Alfred, Dr Thodur Vasudevan, said the technology was transforming the way vascular conditions can be treated.

“By using minimally invasive techniques, such as treating patients through a blood vessel like an artery in the groin, we can often avoid the need for major surgery,” said Dr Vasudevan.

“This places far less stress on the body, reduces pain and tissue damage, and helps patients return to their normal activities sooner.”