Surgical drill cutting waiting times

Canterbury League Club’s donation of $45,500 to Canterbury Hospital was put to good use with the purchase of a multiuse orthopaedic drill set which has cut wait times for surgery.

“In the past year there were over 50 additional orthopaedic cases performed. On some days we have two orthopaedic surgeons operating at the same time and the additional drills have assisted in this. For example, in February this year the drill was used 21 days out of the 28 in the month and sometimes it is used several times a day,” said Ann Kelly, General Manager of Canterbury Hospital.

The drills, made from medical grade stainless steel which can last up to ten years depending on usage, have been used in surgeries such as knee and hip replacements, ligament repairs, and bone manipulation in the arms or legs with the use of screws, plates, pins, wires and nails.

“The orthopaedic surgeons have been very happy with the purchase of the new drill set. It has enabled them to perform multiple surgeries simultaneously or one after the other without concern about supply of this particular piece of equipment. The result is shorter wait times for surgery which is a great benefit to patients” said Kelly.

“Canterbury Hospital is an important health service provider in our local area, and equipment that helps elevate efficiencies and reduce surgery wait time is a huge benefit to the community. Patients have a much better hospital experience and can spend more time recuperating to get back on their feet sooner,” said Dr George Peponis OAM, Chairman of Canterbury League Club.