The National University Hospital (NUH) has unveiled its new Orthopaedic Surgery and Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery Centres, designed to integrate key specialist services into a single cohesive space. This initiative, launched on 17 November, aims to provide a seamless patient journey by combining consultations, surgery, diagnostics, physical therapy, and pharmacy services.
The centres, located on Levels 18 and 19 of the Medical Centre, mark a significant milestone in NUH’s redevelopment plan. Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State for Health and Manpower, officiated the opening. The strategic relocation is intended to reduce patient walking distances by nearly half and facilitate closer collaboration between clinicians and allied health services.
The Orthopaedic Surgery Centre focuses on sports injuries and degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, which affects 10% of the general population. It also serves as a platform for innovative treatments, including Singapore’s first stem cell treatment for cartilage repair. “Our population is staying active for longer, and that means more complex bone and joint needs across all ages,” said Professor James Hui, Head of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery.
The Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery Centre offers comprehensive care for trauma and diseases affecting the hand, wrist, and upper limb. It features a dedicated day surgery suite and serves as a regional referral centre for digital hand and major limb replantation. Dr Sandeep Jacob Sebastin Muttath, Head of the Department, highlighted the centre’s multidisciplinary approach, which includes neurology and rehabilitation medicine.
The Rehabilitation Centre complements these services by offering physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and more, all in one space. Associate Professor Isaac Sia, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation, emphasised the centre’s role in supporting both current patient care and the training of future allied health professionals.
These developments at NUH are set to enhance patient care and support the growing healthcare needs in Singapore’s Western region.
