A new £6m theatre unit is set to open at Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI).
Designed by AFL Architects and developed by Lend Lease, the 620sq m hybrid endovascular theatre suite is set to transform the treatment of patients undergoing cardiovascular operations by enabling innovative techniques and treatments to be carried out that are not currently available. Only a few such facilities exist worldwide that offer the same capabilities.
The suite consists of two hybrid theatres equipped with advanced technology, including a robotic C-arm with the ability to scan patients during surgery, allowing surgeons to perform delicate, minimally-invasive procedures with high-definition imaging. The improved imaging technology minimises the use of contrast dye needed to illuminate an area during surgery, increasing patient safety and efficiency.
During planning for the development, AFL used Building Information Modelling (BIM) in order to provide a true 360° analysis of the available space. Surgeons and clinicians who would be using the suite were then able to view realistic, interactive images of the project during the design development, which significantly streamlined the process.
The suite was designed using an innovative modular construction technique which meets all fire, radiation and sound insulation requirements, but can be quickly disassembled for rapid access to medical gases and cabling.
David Murray, consultant vascular surgeon at Manchester Royal Infirmary, said: “This facility will be a fantastic benefit to the people of Manchester and the North West. It will allow us to perform complex procedures in a safer environment and introduce innovative techniques that are currently not possible. Minimally-invasive treatments will allow patients to have safer surgery and recover much faster. This really is the cutting edge of technology and we are very excited about the future.”
Sheldon Walsh, healthcare director at AFL, added: “This has been a fantastic process to be involved with, from the complexity and sophistication that the design challenges presented, to working with such an innovative team at the MRI”.
The new hybrid suite will be used primarily for vascular and cardiac surgery, but will also be used for other specialties such as urology and major trauma.
The project was supported by mechanical and electrical engineers, Redworth Associates; structural engineers, Sharp & Scarffe; and building control experts, Assent Building Control.
The Manchester Royal Infirmary is one of just a few hospitals in the world with the capability to transform care for patients