The hospital is the first in Ireland to introduce Convergent Biaxial 3-Dimensional (CB3 ) fixation where special plates are engineered to fit the exact shape of a broken rib, and accelerate healing.
This procedure is designed to make rib fracture surgery safer and more efficient, and deliver a stronger and more reliable repair than traditional methods, particularly in areas where the bone is under pressure or weakened.
It involves placing small plates within the chest wall without the need for any large incisions, thereby reducing risk. It enables quicker implantation, which reduces anaesthesia time, and enhances overall surgical efficiency. This precision means the CB3 procedure can reduce overall recovery times for patients with serious rib injuries.
The first patient to benefit from this procedure was Desmond Egan from Ballintubber, County Roscommon, who sustained multiple rib fractures following a fall. Thanks to the CB3 procedure Mr Egan received a strong and more secure repair, supporting a smoother and safer recovery, according to the surgical team who treated him.
“I am very grateful to Professor Alan Soo and his team for all they have done for me. My recovery is going very well, I’m very happy with everything, and I just want to say thank you to everyone involved in my care,” he said, after the procedure.
Professor Soo, consultant cardiothoracic surgeon, says rib fractures are very common in the west of Ireland, particularly as a result of farm and construction site accidents.
“We are proud to be the first hospital in the country to adopt the CB3 procedure. Its advanced design enhances patient safety and surgical precision, helping to reduce risk, minimize painkiller use, lower the rate of post-injury lung complications such as pneumonia, and shorten hospital stays,” he said.
On behalf of UHG, hospital manager Chris Kane said the regional facility is committed to surgical innovation: “The introduction of this new surgical procedure demonstrates our ongoing dedication to improving patient outcomes and providing innovative, patient-focused care for those recovering from serious injuries.”
