Pioneering operation at Warwick Hospital

A PIONEERING operation has been carried out at Warwick Hospital for the first time in the UK.

Consultant shoulder surgeon, Matt Stanislas, has carried out the first-of-its-kind Pyrocarbon ball shoulder replacement at the Lakin Road hospital.

Mr Stanislas is the UK member of a team of six international shoulder surgeons who use a Pyrocarbon ball to replace the shoulder joint. The Pyrocarbon ball has been used as a more advanced alternative to materials such as stainless steel, titanium and plastic which are commonly used for shoulder replacements.

Pyrocarbon boasts several advantages - its hardness is very similar to the cartilage that lines the joint and it is compatible with the body’s tissue and bone. It has already been used successfully in heart surgery, wrist and finger joint replacements.

Mr Stanislas, consultant shoulder surgeon said: “I am delighted to have been able to successfully complete the first pyrocarbon shoulder replacement in the UK at Warwick Hospital. This is an innovative development and ensures our patients are receiving cutting-edge care.”

Warwick Hospital chief executive Glen Burley was proud of the UK first.

He said: “This procedure is a fantastic example of how the Trust is developing services and staff skill-sets to ensure that we are implementing the latest developments. We strive to ensure our patients have the best options available to them.”

In a report published by Dr Foster last year, South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust was highlighted for its achievements within its orthopaedic work.

The Trust’s performance in hip replacements was shown by Dr Foster to be the best performing NHS provider in the country. The Trust aims to continue to develop orthopaedic services, such as shoulder replacements, in order to increase the choice patients have within this type of care.

Matt Stanislas, consultant shoulder surgeon, who carried out the pioneering operation. (s)

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