The surgical staff at the Bustamante Hospital for Children (BHC) is set to perform invasive surgery for the first time in Jamaica thanks to the generous donation by CHASE Fund. The hospital is now equipped with two critical pieces of equipment to enhance the precision of surgical procedures, while facilitating training for residents in paediatric surgery.
The C-Arm and laparoscopy machines are valued at a cost of $46 million, were handed over by Mr. W. Billy Heaven, Chief Executive Officer, CHASE fund during a ceremony at the hospital on Tuesday (December 12, 2023).
Used to provide high-resolution X-ray images in real time, the C-arm machine allows doctors to monitor progress and immediately make any corrections during surgical, orthopaedic and emergency-care procedures, while the laparoscopic equipment enables minimally invasive surgeries.
During his remarks, Mr. Wentworth, Board Chairman of the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA), said that both patients and staff will benefit significantly from the C-Arm machine. The C-arm machines are mainly used in orthopaedic, pain management, and emergency procedures. The equipment will also be used to visualize the small bones of children in real time, allowing for their accurate reduction and subsequent placement.
Dr. Sarah Marshall Niles, Consultant Paediatric Surgeon, Bustamante Hospital for Children, explained during her presentation that there are several benefits of invasive surgery, including smaller scans for the patients, less wound pain, a shorter hospital stay, and fewer funds needed for pain medication. She added that for the staff, the equipment will enable the team to see more clearly and improve precision in surgery.
Mr. Billy Heaven (centre), Chief Executive Officer, CHASE Fund, examines the C-Arm machine with Mr. Wentworth Charles (right), Board Chariman, SERHA, and Dr. the Hon. Kenneth Benjamin (left), Chaiman of the Hospital Management Committee, Bustamante Hospital for Children, in the operating theatre at the hospital.
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