Feb 23, 2022 |
Sensing Precision were recently appointed to supply University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust with their Wilson Flowgrids as part of the transformation of Poole Hospital.
A new state of the art theatre suite extension incorporating 8 new theatres was identified as a priority for the trust, with each theatre requiring a Wilson Flowgrid for both its supply and extract ventilation system.
Sensing Precision were then able to manufacture and deliver sixteen Wilson Flowgrids, (pictured) some of which also required honeycomb flow straighteners that provide an array of straight passageways, which reduce turbulence while minimising pressure drop.
Environmental sustainability is central to the building development – The new theatre block will be constructed to a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ standard – Which represents performance equivalent to the top 10% of buildings in the UK.
The new theatre build will be an extension to the existing hospital building comprising a brand-new purpose built five storey tower. Construction of the new theatre block commenced in January 2021 with completion planned for 2023.
The completed building will incorporate a four-table ‘barn’ theatre. The term ‘barn’ theatre refers to a design where the main surgical area is large and open-plan, with each patient treated in a dedicated space with an ultra-clean air canopy over each station. There will be screens in place to maintain patient privacy and dignity whilst in this area.
This open plan working supports optimisation of space allowing larger theatre areas that provides a high quality working environment, with more natural lighting.
Mr Richard Hartley, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at the facility commented. “We have an exciting opportunity to create, on a single floor at Poole hospital, a collection of operating theatres designed to support orthopaedic surgery including four large theatres within one space which will ensure we provide great care to patients and a state of the art working environment for staff.”
The ultra-clean air canopy over each station creates a positive pressure around each operating table and acts as a barrier between each theatre area reducing the risk of cross contamination. Wilson Flowgrids with their inherent accuracy is integral to this ventilation process. Screens can be used to both protect patient privacy and dignity and also to further prevent the risk of cross contamination.
In addition to the four-table ‘barn’ theatre, the plans include a further four new theatres in the extension and refurbishment of the existing theatres and ward areas. This will create two dedicated surgical floors with a total of fifteen theatres on the Poole site.
The total programme of works runs up to 2026 and forms part of the £250m transformation and development plans for University Hospital Dorset sites.