The Royal Free Hospital part of the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust has submitted plans to build two new vascular theatres at the front of the hospital.
The planning application, which was submitted on Friday 11 October, proposes to extend the hospital at the second and third storey level (above the undercroft area) to build two new hybrid theatres.
Hybrid theatres are equipped to conduct both open surgeries and have full x-ray facilities to carry out interventional radiology procedures.
Hybrid theatres are equipped to conduct both open surgeries and have full x-ray facilities to carry out interventional radiology procedures
The hospital’s existing hybrid theatre was one of the first to be built in the NHS and after 18 years of heavy use, the equipment needs replacing.
Further, the proposed theatre expansion will enable the Royal Free Hospital to treat more patients, reduce the time people wait for surgery and improve outcomes for those with cardiovascular disease.
This aligns with the Trust's clinical vision for cardiovascular services and as the designated vascular surgical hub for north central London.
The hospital’s existing hybrid theatre was one of the first to be built in the NHS
Tackling cardiovascular disease is one of the Royal Free London’s three group clinical priorities as it is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in the UK and within north London.
Consultant vascular and endovascular surgeon and clinical lead for vascular surgery, Jason Constantinou, said: "The proposed expansion of our surgical vascular hub will be hugely beneficial for patients, enabling faster access to the treatment they need and ensuring equity of care for patients across north central London.
"We are committed to providing the very best care for our patients and these plans will enhance the service and facilities we provide as well as delivering a better working environment for staff."
