Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 12 Mar 1991

Vol. 406 No. 3

Written Answers. - Hip Replacement Operation.

Jim Higgins

Ceist:

39 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health when it is anticipated that an applicant for a hip replacement operation (details supplied) in County Mayo will be provided with the necessary surgery; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

I would like to explain that the provision of surgery for any patient is a matter for the clinical decision of the consultant concerned and the hospital authority. Emergency and urgent cases are dealt with promptly, while non-urgency cases are usually placed on a waiting list.

I would suggest to the Deputy that if the patient's condition has deteriorated, he should consult his family doctor who would be in the best position to stress the urgency of the case to the consultant concerned.

The Deputy will be interested to hear that clean air systems have been installed in two theatres at Merlin Park Hospital. When commissioned these should allow for much greater throughput of orthopaedic cases, in particular, hip replacement patients.