An Australian-First – Townsville University Hospital Hybrid Theatre
[Above: Ashley Beckett]
Townsville University Hospital has been revolutionising surgical care in Northern Queensland with Australia’s first hybrid operating theatre – an innovative facility that incorporates medical imaging capabilities directly into the theatre itself. This advancement reduces the need for patient transfers, improve treatment in time-critical situations, and enhance health outcomes for the community.
Located on Level 2, the hospital’s ‘hot floor,’ the hybrid theatre expands the Operating Theatre Suite, increasing both capability and capacity. The $17 million project is a key component of Townsville Hospital and Health Service’s (THHS) long-term infrastructure planning and remains a priority for healthcare delivery.
[Above: Ashley Beckett]
Hybrid theatres combine imaging and surgical capabilities in the same room and on the same table, enabling clinicians to make more informed decisions during delicate procedures. This advancement allows surgeons to perform complex operations without moving patients between departments – an invaluable advantage in emergency situations where minutes save lives. Patients who would typically be transferred across the hospital for diagnostic imaging and surgical procedures will now receive integrated care in one location. The theatre will support the delivery of vascular, cardiothoracic, neurosurgical, trauma, and emergency services. It will also increase elective surgery capacity, with potential applications across multiple surgical sub-specialties.
Health Service Chief Executive Kieran Keyes said the theatre was a significant project for the hospital.
Health Service Chief Executive, Kieran Keyes
Currently, patients needing x-rays or other imaging are transferred from the operating theatre to the medical imaging department downstairs. The hybrid theatre is a one-stop-shop which means patients who need imaging won’t experience a stop-start to their procedures.
[Above left: Angus Martin]
This project is one of three major clinical service upgrades being delivered as part of Townsville’s $600 million health expansion. Clinical involvement and contributions from nursing staff, surgeons, and the medical imaging team have helped shape a flexible, future-ready surgical environment.
Now operational, the hybrid theatre will ensure Townsville University Hospital continues to provide world-class healthcare, meeting the needs of a growing North Queensland population.
[Below: Angus Martin]
