Surgery team’s a cut above the rest

The COVID-19 pandemic has left unprecedented surgical backlogs across the NHS, but at Medway Maritime Hospital, innovative solutions are helping turn the tide.

Following nationally-recognised initiatives, such as High Intensity Theatre (HIT) lists and High Volume Low Complexity (HVLC) lists, the hospital is using the latest technology to transform the way routine surgeries are delivered, ensuring patients receive timely, high-quality care.

In January 2025 the Surgery and Orthopaedics teams achieved a remarkable milestone by carrying out a record-breaking list for upper limb surgeries. This included procedures such as carpal tunnel releases, which are high in demand but relatively low in complexity. By grouping these cases together and optimising theatre time, the team was able to treat up to 20 patients in just one day.

This builds on the department’s innovative work from the previous year, when they successfully operated on 15 patients in a single day, using virtual reality headsets to help patients relax during procedures performed under local anaesthesia. This ground-breaking approach not only improved patient experience but also demonstrated the potential for technology to enhance surgical care.

Ali Abdelwahab, Locum Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon in the middle of carpal tunnel surgery, wearing a hospital gown, mask and head covering.

Ali Abdelwahab, Locum Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon (pictured left), who oversaw the January 2025 list, said: “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. By focusing on efficiency and patient-centred care, we’re making a real difference in reducing waiting times.

“Patients are carefully chosen based on clinical need and the simplicity of their procedure, while theatre schedules are optimised to minimise downtime, with teams working together closely to ensure smooth transitions between cases. Most HVLC procedures are day cases, allowing patients to return home the same day and freeing up beds for others.”

Howard Cottam, Medical Director of Surgery and Anaesthetics, said: “This is another fantastic example of the excellent team working across surgical services, theatres and anaesthesia, which is helping to treat more patients sooner.

“Certainly the key to success is meticulous planning and collaboration. Every member of the team plays a vital role in ensuring these lists run smoothly.”

Feedback from patients has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying it has helped them regain their quality of life quickly.

Ali Abdelwahab and some of the High Intensity Theatre Team

Bukola Ogunleye, 48, who underwent carpal tunnel surgery earlier this year, said: “I’d been struggling with severe pain and numbness in my hand which affected my daily life. When I got the call for surgery, I was relieved. The team was fantastic, and I’m feeling so much better.

“The virtual reality headset was a game-changer. I was able to immerse myself in a calming environment, and before I knew it, the procedure was over. It made the whole experience much less stressful and distracted me from the operation.”

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Front cover of our spring magazine. Title reads 'News at Medway Spring 2025'. Jools Holland stands in front of the Medway clocktower. Headline reads

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