New high-tech surgical system to improve patient care at Wigmore Hospital

MOOSE JAW — In a further advancement for local health care, the Dr. F. H. Wigmore Regional Hospital has enhanced its surgical capabilities with the installation of state-of-the-art Stryker Systems in all four of its operating theatres.

This installation, completed over the past few months but recently shared by the Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF), was made possible thanks to a generous $600,000 donation from the Dr. F. H. Wigmore Regional Hospital Auxiliary.

The Stryker System is renowned for its cutting-edge medical technology and integrates high-definition cameras, advanced monitors, and precision surgical instruments. This comprehensive setup is carefully designed to assist medical professionals as they navigate complex surgical procedures with enhanced accuracy and efficiency.

“This is going to help thousands of patients,” said Kelly McElree, director of the MJHF that has been pivotal in facilitating this and other advancements at the hospital.

“With every operation that goes on in the operating rooms, patients will benefit from this new state-of-the-art equipment, and that’s made possible by the Auxiliary,” he noted. “By having that equipment, there is less downtime, and more patients will be able to be helped because of the new system.”

Beyond increasing efficiency in the operating room, the upgraded equipment also enhances the precision and effectiveness of surgical procedures.

“The new system enables superior visualization of the surgical field. It allows for smoother and more accurate laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery, which is to the benefit of the patients,” shared Dr. Kruger.

The Auxiliary’s substantial donation was made possible through the estate of long-time hospital supporters Jack and Ruby Radu. Their legacy of generosity has been instrumental in bringing this advanced technology to Moose Jaw.

Additionally, the Auxiliary has contributed two specialized air mattresses that are currently available to support long-term and palliative care patients, further underscoring its commitment to patient comfort and care.

“The Medicine Unit staff had requested two (of these mattresses), and the Foundation donors came through and we’re providing both of those air mattresses,” McElree said. “Air mattresses at a hospital help patients when they are severely ill or in palliative care — when movement hurts — and (the mattresses) provide comfort and support to the patient to make their time at the hospital a little more comfortable.”

The MJHF has been at the forefront of making these advancements a reality. Through its “Vision of Tomorrow” campaign, the Foundation seeks to equip the hospital with the latest medical technology to ensure health care professionals have the tools they need to deliver exceptional care.

“Both the advancements in the operating room and the comfort of patients in the Medicine Unit are made possible with donations to the MJHF, and we continue to invest in the hospital in order to improve patient care,” McElree said.

“We’re happy to do so, and we’re very thankful to the medical staff who help our patients out,” he added. “The community is very grateful for the medical staff that we have at the hospital who help save and enhance the lives of patients each and every single day.”

For more information about the MJHF or to donate to the Vision of Tomorrow campaign, visit MJHF.org or call 306-694-0373.