Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital will soon have some of the most up-to-date technology in the country as it creates two integrated theatres, installing equipment costing £500,000 in two existing theatres.

The new development has been funded by a grant of £125,000 from Big C and a donation of £382,000 from the NNUH hospital charity.

Consultant Surgeon Richard Wharton said: “Surgeons are performing ever-more complex procedures using these new technologies and the advantages of this equipment will include a reduction in complications, faster recovery, more efficient surgery, and improved quality of care.”

Nikki Morris, Deputy Chief Executive at Big C said, “Big C is pleased to support this initiative which will see patients across Norfolk and Waveney benefit from world class cancer care. This investment will enable our medical teams to give the best care now, while supporting the education of those who will be our surgeons of the future.”

This investment comes as part of Big C’s annual grants round which funds ground-breaking cancer research at the Norwich Research Park and new medical equipment across the county’s main hospitals.

Integrated theatres have advanced technology installed in the ceiling of the theatre which assists surgeons who are carrying out keyhole surgery. They also benefit patients through better outcomes and safer care. One of the new features of the integrated theatre is an infrared scope which help surgeons check for internal anatomy and the potential for bowel leaks, by highlighting blood vessels and lymph nodes. There will also be the ability to train future surgeons by transmitting live footage of surgery to the hospital’s lecture theatre or further afield.

The new technology will be installed later this year as the two theatres are refurbished and it will be used for patients undergoing bowel, oesophageal and gastric (stomach), thoracic and gynaecological surgical procedures.