“What makes this hybrid operating theatre unique is that it is a dedicated hybrid lab in with laminar flow which can be used for both minimally invasive vascular and cardiothoracic surgery,” explains Gustav Kruger, Account Executive at Siemens Healthcare. “It is a unique multi axis system that can be adjusted for individual operator preferences and also provides excellent patient access.”

One of the most valuable Artis Zeego features is its ability to provide large volume, cross sectional DynaCT 360 degree visualization in a single six second sweep. The Artis Zeego is also the first multi axis system that can be adjusted for individual operator preferences. It includes a variable iso centre which means that its height can be easily adjusted - a huge advantage for the various surgeons working on the system. It also boasts a flexible rotating detector and collimator which allows for the image orientation to be displayed always upright even when system is rotated. “Everything about this machine has been designed around the surgeon’s comfort and convenience,” notes Kruger. “This is a complete future proof lab and a one of a kind system in the world. “It also includes Aortic Valve Guide, specialized software for TAVI procedures in order to lower patient risk with Heart Valve Replacements.”

“Instead of a number of machines, we now have one state of the art machine which has incredible capabilities and multiple surgical uses. It’s a very versatile machine which not only provides extremely good quality imaging, but is fully automated and easy to use,” adds Gavanescu.

“There is no question that if you intend to be at the cutting edge of technology in terms of vascular surgery, you need a hybrid theatre of this nature,” stresses vascular surgeon, Dr Jay Pillai. “We’ve only been using it for two weeks, but we are already seeing the benefits. Not only has it extended the spectrum of cases we are able to handle, but we’re also able to handle more complex cases. We’re saving a significant amount of time: a case that would typically take 90 minutes is now taking less than an hour. Patient safety has also increased as we are able to use significantly less contrast and radiation exposure has also been reduced. Another benefit is that more than one specialist can be accommodated in the theatre when dealing with complex surgical cases.”

Cardio thoracic surgeon, Dr Jaco Botha is equally complimentary. “This hybrid theatre will allow us to expand our practice and services to our patients and offer most modern surgeries.” Using the hybrid theatre, Dr Botha also  intends to start a transcatheter valve replacement program, hybrid coronary artery bypass program, hybrid complex aortic arch pathology replacement program as well as a thoracic oncology program .  From a thoracic surgery perspective, with Dyna CT and advanced imaging capabilities, we’re able to locate lung tumours much more easily.

“I’m very excited to start working in this theatre. There is nothing like it currently available in South Africa and there is no doubt that it will be opening up a whole new dimension to our practice,” concludes Botha.

 Siemens will be sending four specialists, including a cardiac and a vascular surgeon from Life Flora Clinic to Germany in the next few months to receive further training on the machine and its software. “It’s important that doctors have a comprehensive understanding of how the machine operates and its capabilities so that it can be used to its full potential,” says Kruger.

“We’re very excited about this fellowship opportunity being provided by Siemens,” says Dr Gavanescu. “We have committed surgeons, dedicated to excellent patient outcomes and with the help of this hybrid lab, we believe we’re positioning Life Flora Clinic at the forefront of technological capabilities.”