Lung cancer Scots to receive 3D treatment trial

PIONEERING 3D imaging technology is being trialled in Scotland to help lung cancer patients receive quicker and safer treatment.

The trial is taking place at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital in Clydebank. Picture: Donald MacLeod

The Golden Jubilee’s thoracic team are using the innovative technique during keyhole surgery, which can provides improved depth perception on patient images, giving surgeons a more accurate picture of the patient’s condition and making operations quicker, safer and more effective.

Previously only used in gynaecology and colorectal surgery, the Video Assisted Thoracotomy Service (VATS) is already reducing the length of stay, improving patient satisfaction and allowing individuals to return to regular activity earlier than those undergoing open thoracotomy – the traditional treatment for lung cancer.

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Jill Young, chief executive of the Golden Jubilee National Hospital, said: “The Golden Jubilee has a track record for getting things done.

“We have been using 3D for training in orthopaedics; we have been looking for ways to spread 3D across other specialties so we’re delighted to be testing it in both lung and cardiac surgery – this is just one way to make sure that patients are benefitting from advances in technology.

“Since beginning the trial in June, our lung surgery patients have already benefitted from shorter surgery times, which means quicker recovery times and getting active earlier than if they were having traditional surgery.

“We are using technology more and more to help patients deal with life changing illnesses every day; investment in innovation is essential to ensure that the needs and expectations of every patient are met, providing the highest possible standard of care to the patients of NHS Scotland.”

Health Secretary Shona Robison visited the hospital today (August 13) to see a demonstration of the innovative technology.

She said: “The testing and early implementation of new technology is crucial in changing the way healthcare operates – and more importantly, improving the experiences of our patients.

“This 3D trial, as well as other medical devices tested at the Golden Jubilee, could see earlier roll-outs of new high tech and potentially life-saving medical technology across Scotland’s NHS.”

Trials of the technology have been running since June at the Golden Jubilee Hospital.

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