Howorth Medical - A "Significant Enhancement" at BMI Albyn Hospital, Aberdeen June 2006 Howorth Medical has recently completed a major project at BMI Albyn Hospital, Aberdeen. Work carried out included the upgrading and refitting of 2 existing theatres and a recovery area. A 3rd theatre was also built to increase capacity and flexibility of usage. Howorth's Exflow Ultra-Clean Ventilation Canopy The project was carried out in 3 phases, starting October 2005 and ending February 2006. The initial phase required the existing central air handling unit to remain fully operational while new air handling systems were installed and commissioned, all within the limitations presented by the plantroom/building envelope. The plant upgrade has facilitated an energy efficient environment. Howorth's Exflow Ultra-Clean Ventilation Canopy was installed in Theatres 1 and 2, upgrading them from conventional theatres to theatres with ultra-clean airflow and therefore ideal for orthopaedic surgery. The Exflow 90-5 is one of the world's most advanced ultra-clean ventilation systems, with its unique graded velocity air profile. Howorth also designed and built a 3rd theatre, accommodating a ceiling-mounted Zeiss microscope for use in ophthalmic procedures. All 3 theatres and the recovery area now feature the Howorth Isolated Power System (with UPS back-up), further protecting the patient from any risk of electric shock and thereby possible de-fibrillation while under anaesthetic. New air-conditioning and BMS controls systems were also installed, ensuring the provision of optimum environmental conditions for the surgical procedure, patients and clinicians. Works were carried out within a live operating department as 1 theatre had to remain functional at all times; this entailed close co-operation between all involved to ensure exceptional clinical and hygiene standards were maintained throughout the works. Albyn Hospital is part of BMI Healthcare, a leading provider of healthcare services throughout the UK. Located in the west end of Aberdeen, Albyn Hospital is the only independent hospital serving Grampian and the North of Scotland.
	Kenneth Hay, Executive Director of Albyn Hospital, commented, "The upgrading of 2 of our theatres to incorporate ultra-clean ventilation systems is a significant enhancement, further minimising risk of infection. Carried out efficiently and completed on time, this was a very successful project that ensures we can continue to provide the highest quality care and treatment for private patients."