The first university-affiliated practice in Cape Town to specialise in the full spectrum of orthopaedic surgery was opened last week at UCT Private Academic Hospital in Observatory. OrthoUCT will offer expertise in each of the various sub-specialties within the orthopaedic field, including hip and knee reconstruction surgery, limb lengthening surgery and spine, hand, elbow, shoulder, foot and ankle surgery.
All of the nine surgeons at OrthoUCT are members of the University of Cape Town. “Academic involvement ensures that our patients will receive care that is cutting edge, peer reviewed, evidence based, and in line with best international orthopaedic practice and the latest techniques and teachings,” explains Prof Dunn.
Professor Robert Dunn, head of OrthoUCT, says that the field of orthopaedic surgery has expanded significantly over the last few decades, which has led to the development of several sub-specialist fields. “Orthopaedic surgery, loosely defined, is reconstructive surgery of the musculoskeletal system. It is generally employed to improve function and quality of life. The field of orthopaedic surgery addresses problems ranging from birth defects to trauma as well as degenerative conditions, among others. It is well recognised for ‘joint replacements’. For example, hip replacement is considered to be the second most successful of all operations in terms of improved quality of life and has a significantly positive impact on the lives of many older patients.”
Professor Dunn is also chair of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Cape Town, and head of the Division of Orthopaedic Surgery and Orthopaedic Spinal Services at Groote Schuur Hospital and Red Cross Children’s Hospital. Aside from performing over 200 spine surgeries annually, Professor Dunn also serves on a number of academic bodies, including the College of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the South African Orthopaedic Association and the Spine Society.
The practice is supported by other medical specialists, including anaesthetists, intensivists and physicians, who are also members of the University of Cape Town academic staff. OrthoUCT also has dedicated physiotherapists to ensure timely and effective rehabilitation of patients.
“UCT Private Academic Hospital is excited to be taking the lead in orthopaedic surgery, and we believe that OrthoUCT, as a multidisciplinary practice, offers a vital service for the Cape Town community, and will positively impact the lives of many patients,” concludes Lieselle Shield, general manager at UCT Private Academic Hospital.
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Issued by: Martina Nicholson Associates (MNA) on behalf of UCT Private Academic Hospital
Contact: Martina Nicholson, Graeme Swinney, Sarah Beswick or Jillian Penaluna
Telephone: (011) 469 3016
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]