GPH Surgeon Links to the US

23 January 2004

Surgeons at Greenslopes Private Hospital linked, via telecasted videoconferencing images, for the first time to colleagues in the Northern Hemisphere demonstrating the capabilities of the Hospital’s state-of-the-art theatre technology.

Linking to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre in Boston, USA for the official opening of their Stryker endosuite operating theatres, in Brisbane, Surgeon, Dr John Rutherford, performed his 310th laparoscopic adrenalectomy procedure (keyhole removal of an adrenal gland) while onlookers in Boston observed the doctor’s techniques and use of the technology.

A pioneer in this procedure, Dr Rutherford said historically, to provide advice or demonstrate surgical procedures to a wider audience, he would have had to travel to colleagues or students, an often expensive and time consuming ordeal.

Both hospitals’ theatre suites are equipped with robotic technology and voice-activated commands connecting all equipment, with flat screen technology, ceiling booms, special cameras, scopes, lighting and digitally-enhanced equipment.

“This technology is a great platform for the Hospitals, which now enables them to beam images of surgery and other procedures, as well as tuition programs anywhere in the world, providing a high level of training for local and overseas surgeons as well as medical students, preparing the next generation of laparoscopic surgeons.” Dr Rutherford said.