HEALTH experts at Gobowen’s Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) have been boosted with new equipment thanks to its charity.

The specialist hospital's League of Friends (LoF) has funded an advanced diagnostic tool, which will be used in the pre-operative department.

The Dopplex Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) machine is designed to assess blood flow in the leg and detect any abnormalities in the circulatory system.  

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The device, which is non-invasive, will help give staff at the Shropshire-based hospital insight into the health of the blood circulatory system, enabling them to diagnose and manage conditions at an early stage. 

The machine cost the Friends at Shropshire’s specialist orthopaedic hospital more than £4,000. 

Mr Nilesh Makwana, Consultant Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle surgeon, championed the purchase of the device.

He said: “This innovative machine revolutionises our approach to patient care, by enhancing vascular assessment in pre-operative and outpatient settings, significantly bolstering patient safety.  

“Early detection and treatment of poor blood supply enhances the success of any foot and ankle surgery and more importantly reduces the risk of wound complications and healing.

“Compared to our current methods, this machine not only saves time but also lightens the workload of our dedicated nursing staff, allowing us to see more patients in our clinics.

“Its impact extends beyond efficiency; it safeguards patients from surgical complications.  

“We are very grateful to the League of Friends for funding it." 

The machine will assist in the early detection of peripheral vascular disease – where blood circulation is reduced to a body part, other than the brain or heart, due to a narrowed or blocked vessel.

This affects 20 per cent of people who are over 60 years old.  

The Dopplex ABI machine is designed to help provide a simple way to assess blood flow in the arteries without the need for any surgical or invasive procedures.  

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Victoria Sugden, charity director at The League of Friends, admitted she and her colleagues were delighted to play a part.

"We are thrilled to have provided the funds for the purchase of the Dopplex ABI machine,” she said. 

“This purchase highlights how charitable funds can really make a real difference, support innovation and ultimately improve patient care, safety and experience.’’