News

Hollywood Private Hospital Achieves Record Joint Surgeries, Despite COVID-19 Restrictions

Feb 22, 2021

Hollywood Private Hospital (HPH) staff achieved a significant milestone with 3470 joint surgeries performed in 2020, despite COVID-19 restrictions.

Orthopaedic surgeons performed 205 more joint surgeries in 2020 than 2019 at Hollywood. A record 364 joint surgeries were performed in November last year.

Hollywood Private Hospital Chief Executive Officer Peter Mott said it was an amazing achievement and congratulated staff for their exceptional service during a difficult year.

“This was very much a team effort from our dedicated orthopaedic team and wider hospital community,” Mr Mott said.

“The continued growth of our orthopaedic services ensures we can provide the best health outcomes for our patients.”

HPH Orthopaedic Coordinator Michelle Connor said there used to be a maximum of eight or nine orthopaedic theatres operating at once, but now 10 or 11 theatres were running simultaneously.

“We will continue to invest in additional infrastructure and new technology to accommodate the increased demand for our services,” Ms Connor said.

“With COVID-19 restrictions early last year, there was a reduction in sporting and gym injuries,” she said.

“When restrictions eased, surgeons were able to focus on joint replacements.

“With restricted travel, there were more surgeons available and many people chose to have their surgery during this time.”

Orthopaedic Surgeon Benjamin Hewitt said the increase in joint surgeries was also reflective of an ageing population combined with an increasing desire for patients to stay active.

“There is a trend for the increasing use of technology during surgery and increasing pressure to reduce the length of stay in hospital with a move towards more day surgery,” Dr Hewitt said.

CAPS: Orthopaedic Consultant Greg Janes and Hollywood Private Hospital Orthopaedic Coordinator Michelle Connor preparing to perform a knee replacement.