Vaiola Hospital’s newly renovated operating theatres were officially commissioned yesterday, enhancing Tonga’s surgical capabilities.
The commissioning ceremony marked the completion of a major upgrade to three operating theatres at Vaiola Hospital, aimed at improving surgical outcomes across the Kingdom.
The operating theatres are expected to be fully operational this week.
The project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, the Rotary Club of Whanganui North, and the Ministry of Health.
The upgraded theatres are expected to facilitate more complex procedures, including joint replacement surgeries, which were previously unfeasible due to inadequate facilities. The improvements aim to reduce infection risks and expand the range of surgical services available to the Tongan population.
The project, with a total value of over NZ$500,000, was funded through donations, including NZ$276,469 from the LDS Church and NZ$178,661 raised by eight New Zealand Rotary Clubs and one Australian Rotary Club.
Pharma Tech Industries, an Indian engineering firm, led the refurbishment, incorporating stainless steel interiors, advanced HVAC systems, anti-static vinyl flooring, and LED surgical lighting. The theatres also feature surgeon control panels and medical gas terminal units.
The Ministry of Health anticipates that the enhanced surgical environment will lead to better patient outcomes and increased capacity to address the nation’s healthcare needs.
