Quicker, less time in hospital, fewer follow-up appointments and reduced worry for patients. These are just some of the benefits of a new gynaecology procedure carried out in Stockton.
The new hysteroscopic treatment is being performed in an outpatient clinic at the University Hospital of North Tees.
It comes after we invested in new MyoSure tissue removal equipment and a fluent fluid management system for the hospital site.
The surgery involves targeting and removing uterine tissue including fibroids and polyps without having to undergo major surgery.
Investigating and treating an issue like this could only previously be carried out under general anaesthetic in the operating theatre.
Standardising gynaecology care across our hospitals
This is the same equipment which has been in use for several years at the University Hospital of Hartlepool.
Dolon Basu, consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology, said: “We are delighted to now have this equipment on both hospital sites.
“This procedure is already offered to patients at our Hartlepool site and our teams are now able replicate the service at North Tees.
“New ways of working and challenges around COVID-19 has supported the need to look again at the services we provide. It has also supported the need to increase the numbers of procedures done within an outpatient setting.”
The surgery is being led by obstetrics and gynaecology consultants Jennifer Hoh and Mary George.
Dr Hoh said: “It has already been demonstrated that this procedure performed in an outpatient setting has many benefits for patients and for the organisation.
“These include the ability to reduce waiting lists and backlog of patients, cost savings, minimising infection rates, reducing any potential concerns or anxiety for patients, a reduced time in hospital, a faster procedure and fewer appointments.
“It’s a fantastic development for the quality of care our female patients will be receiving.”