NRH receives ultrasound machine for regional anaesthesia
The National Referral Hospital (NRH) received a new high-tech ultrasound machine today to be used for regional anaesthesia.
The equipment was donated by Dr. Thomas Matheson, an Australian Anaesthetist who was part of an orthopaedic outreach team conducting upper-limb surgeries in the country.
The machine provides a real-time, live image of nerves and surrounding structures, allowing anaesthetists to accurately guide a needle to the target area during operations.
Dr. Matheson, who first visited the country last year, said he noticed NRH anaesthetists showing strong interest in regional anaesthesia, which prompted him to donate the machine.
“Last year it was obvious that NRH anaesthetists had an interest in regional anaesthesia and were enthusiastic about it. They demonstrated this with a logbook of many regional anaesthesia cases and later presented their work at a Pacific anaesthesia meeting in Suva.
“I thought it was a good investment to bring a high-level machine for use at NRH in the future,” Dr. Matheson told local media today.
Australian anaesthetist, Dr. Thomas Mattheson.
Meanwhile, Head of the Orthopaedic Department, Dr. Patrick Hou’asia, thanked Dr. Matheson and his team for the donation, saying the machine will enhance service delivery at the NRH.
“With the trauma and orthopaedic cases we handle, this machine will be very useful in keeping limbs numb during operations. We are excited, as it provides an alternative for patients who cannot be fully sedated due to their medical conditions. With regional anaesthesia, we can cover more procedures safely.
“Our patients will be the real beneficiaries, even if they may not fully realise how much more efficient this machine will make our work,” Dr. Hou’asia said.
SIBC News understands that the machine comes with a five-year warranty and is expected to last up to 15 years. It includes three probes, which will be useful for the department.
The ultrasound-guided approach works faster, lasts longer, and provides a better-quality block while using less medication and improving patient safety and comfort.
ENDS//