Under the microscope

Thanks to donations to the Western Health Foundation, patients in Melbourne’s west are regaining their voices.

A new ENT microscope, valued at $110,000, has been purchased for Footscray Hospital, replacing an older version that was no longer fit for purpose. The microscope assists surgeons to perform delicate procedures by providing a detailed view of hard-to-reach areas in the ears, nose and throat.

Dr Amanda Richards is a Voice and Swallowing Specialist at Western Health and has been using the new microscope to remove tumours on patient's vocal chords.

"Most of the surgery I perform at Footscray Hospital is to remove tumours from vocal chords. These patients are literally losing their voices before surgery and the ENT Microscope means we can treat them more effectively to regain their voices," said Dr Richards.

"The optics on the new microscope are brilliant making it easier to navigate the small dark areas around the vocal chords. The tumours are generally 2-3mm, and as it's such a small area there can be less than 1mm of wriggle room. The new microscope is critical to achieving good outcomes for our patients.

"It easily integrates with the laser system to treat cancers with surgical efficiency making the process more streamlined for patients.

"I can't thank our donors enough. With the purchase of this new ENT Microscope, they are making a difference every time we take a patient into the operating theatre."

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