THE tireless members of the Lithgow Hospital Ladies Auxiliary have contributed another valuable piece of medical equipment to Lithgow Hospital’s operating theatres, donating an ophthalmology microscope, valued at $91,000, for use during cataract surgeries.
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Cataracts are the most common eye disease among older Australians and the most common cause of visual impairment.
Roughly 20 ophthalmology surgeries are undertaken at Lithgow Hospital each month.
The donated ophthalmology microscope accompanies a new Phacoemulsifier (also known as a Phaco machine), recently purchased by Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District for the operating theatres.
The Phaco machine uses a tiny probe to send ultrasonic vibrations into the cloudy lens caused by a cataract.
The latest in eye surgery technology, the new Phaco machine and ophthalmology microscope have replaced older equipment, ensuring Lithgow Hospital’s ophthalmology surgeons Dr Kong Chan Tang, Dr Glen Fernando and Dr Paul Adler are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment when operating on cataract and other eye surgery patients.
“This equipment is as good as you’ll find anywhere in the world and a great addition to the public hospital,” Dr Adler said.
“The optics are crystal clear and the Phaco machine has precise controls that are programmable and adjustable.
“The improved accuracy and flexibility makes operations substantially safer.
“It is good to be offering a state-of-the-art cataract service to people in Lithgow,” Dr Adler said.
Lithgow Hospital General Manager Jill Marjoram praised the efforts of the Lithgow Hospital Ladies Auxiliary for making this service possible.
“The Lithgow Hospital Ladies Auxiliary work so hard to provide vital medical equipment for the hospital.
“We’re incredibly grateful for their ongoing support and the purchase of this microscope.
“To have this equipment available for our community is a great thing for Lithgow Hospital.
“My thanks also extend to those in the community, and in particular the Lithgow District Cricket Association, who gave so generously to fund the microscope,” Jill said.
The Cricket Association made a significant contribution towards the purchase of the microscope, donating $940 raised during the Brian Sharpe Memorial Knockout competition.