Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, we have been able to fund new state of the art laparoscopic and endoscopy equipment for Wellington Regional Hospital’s Paediatric Theatre Service. The new 3D/4K Operative Laparoscopy System and 4K upgrade of the Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Imaging System will ensure better health outcomes for our hospital’s youngest patients by way of better disease diagnosis, less invasive surgeries, fewer repeat operations and reduced hospital stays.
Bill Day, Chair WHF with Mr Prabal Mishra, Paediatric Surgeon
Shona Brunton & Bill Day WHF
The new laparoscopic equipment enables surgeons to better visualise delicate structures, such as tiny bladder tubes in infants with kidney problems, giving a clearer and more detailed picture of what’s going on inside a child’s body. For example, in a conventional surgery, surgeons typically make a small incision and use a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to guide them. However, the images from a standard laparoscope may lack clarity and depth, making it challenging to precisely identify the kidney and surrounding structures. Using the advanced system, surgeons can navigate with greater clarity and can see the kidney in three dimensions, making it easier to distinguish it from surrounding tissues. The ultra-high definition also ensures that even the tiniest details are visible, enhancing precision and making for a safer surgery and faster recovery.
Bill, Shona and Mr Mishra with other theatre staff
As a vital part of the national specialist hospital network, Wellington Regional Hospital sees children from around our region and beyond. The Paediatric Gastrointestinal Service manages a diverse range of conditions and diseases, including coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and Colitis), gastroesophageal reflux disease as well as gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding. Imagine a young child suffering from unexplained abdominal pain and discomfort. With the upgrades to the Gastrointestinal Endoscopy System, that includes ultra-high definition imaging and enhanced contrast capabilities, doctors can now detect even the smallest changes in colour, texture, and spatial changes in delicate tissues, leading to faster and more accurate disease detection.
In short, Wellington Hospitals Foundation donors are playing a crucial role in improving paediatric healthcare. Your generosity ensures that Kiwi kids facing medical challenges receive the highest standard of care that greatly improves their quality of life.