Churchill Private Hospital’s state-of-the-art glass modular operating theatre is a first for New Zealand and has proved a huge success for surgeons and patients alike.
The innovative glass-panelled walls are designed to be ultra-hygienic and extremely functional, with the added benefit of creating a bright, colourful environment that is pleasant and calming for all who use it.
The walls include recessed monitors, built-in desks, and workbenches designed to eliminate clutter.
Churchill Private Hospital’s General Manager, Nicki Stretch, says plans for a conventional new theatre were well underway when the team were presented with a unique modular construction operating theatre concept, which is found throughout the UK and Europe.
Nelson company Opritech NZ was working Adam International to bring the modular system to New Zealand. Opritech would design, customise and install the system.
Nicki says the trustees of Churchill Private Hospital Trust, were very keen to engage a New Zealand company – especially one as close as Nelson, where expertise and support services were only a short drive away.
The cost of the theatre didn’t increase significantly from the original plans, and came with the added benefit of long-term flexibility.
Because the glass panels can be easily re-configured, and have all services located behind them, new services and technologies can easily be added. The whole layout of the theatre can even be reconfigured very simply by removing individual panels and adding walls to expand.
“The modular concept provided a way for us to future-proof our new operating theatre. This system allows for the adaptation of technologies as they change and improve so, in the long run, the dollar figures more than added up when compared to the overall long-term benefit.”
Nicki says the ultra-sterile environment means the potential for intra-operative infection is significantly reduced for patients.
This is because the glass panel system is hermetically sealed with neoprene gaskets, so the glass surfaces are easy to clean. That, along with a silver ion embedded lining on the back of the glass panels, combine to create a space where 99.99% of dangerous bacteria are destroyed, Nicki says.
Churchill Private Hospital surgeon Andy Meighan says all those who use the theatre are very satisfied with it, and patient care has been enhanced by its innovative technology.
“This theatre is extremely functional and easy to use. From the smallest details, such as being able to open a door without touching a button, controlling the lights with a recessed touch screen or no longer having to wheel so many floor trolleys around, this environment is absolutely a pleasure to work in.”
The contemporary light blue colour and clean lines, which create a clean, spacious feeling, have been complemented by a beautiful large image of the Marlborough Sounds which both staff and patients have said is calming to focus on.
“Naturally, some of our patients can feel some anxiety before a procedure, but this new bright, airy theatre environment has really added to our ability to put their mind at ease. The Marlborough Sounds picture is just a great personal touch.”
