Mike Weatherley – man with a big heart

Mike Weatherley, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Brighton has visited the cardiac unit at the Royal Sussex County Hospital to see the latest equipment being used.   The machine is for perioperative Transoesophageal echocardiocardiography.   It uses ultrasounds to scan the heart; it provides doctors with real time videos of moving heart. An oesophageal probe (a small probe inserted into the oesophagus) to scan the heart during the operation.  The machine was donated by the British Heart Foundation at a cost of £66,000.

During his visit Mike met Dr. Marco Maccario Lead Clinician Cardiac Anaesthesia, Dr Andrew Forsyth, lead cardiac surgeon in Brighton, and Terry Ayres from the Brighton Heart Support Trust.  The trust was formed in 1987, under Prof. Douglas Chamberlain, to promote “Excellence in Cardiac Care”.  To achieve this they ensure that both equipment and techniques are kept up to date making the best possible cardiac care available to patients locally.

Mike said

“I would like to thank every one at the unit for taking the time to show me round.  This is just an amazing place.  Brighton is widely known for its pioneering care of patients with heart disease.  Resuscitation ambulances, programmes of rehabilitation, staff education and unique research have set an international standard – remarkable that this is carried out in what could be called an “ordinary” district hospital.

“The echocardiocardiography allows doctors to monitor the heart during operations and gives them a clear picture in which to make an accurate diagnosis.  It really is like having extra long arms or a third arm even.  Its benefits are recognised world wide.  A better understanding of the pathology; better monitoring to optimise treatment; and possibility of immediate correction of surgery.  A great leap forward by any ones standards.  To quote Dr Forsyth, this is as dramatic invention as the car or the wheel.

“The unit really could do with a second machine with a third probe.  At the moment the plan is to carry out an average 4 operations a day, and are managing 2.7.  A fantastic achievement in itself, and I warmly congratulate the team on their efforts.  It is wonderful that the British Heart Foundation donated the first machine, and I fully understand the financial problems the Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust is having.  But this equipment would be beneficial to both patients and clinicians.  Millions of pounds are being pumped into the NHS by the Government, I would like to see more of this going to front line services.  And this is a prime example.  I hope that the trust will find the necessary cash in its budget to buy a second machine.  It is a scandal that front line services are been paid for by charity.  Patients and doctors deserve better.  I sincerely hope they get it.  Charities most certainly have their place, but that surely is not purchasing essential medical equipment.”

Mike also met Brighton and Sussex University Hospital Trust chief executive Glynn Jones.  Mike adds:

“Mr Jones told me that donations are not included in the trust’s budget, but they are all replied to.  I fully recognise the NHS has to prioritise and it cannot do everything.  Under Glynn’s leadership, I look forward to seeing continuing improvements in our hospitals.