PATIENTS in East Lancashire undergoing minor ear, nose and throat surgery will now benefit from investment in new medical kit.

Bosses at Royal Blackburn Hospital have welcomed the delivery of new top-of-the-range microscope technology now being used in theatres there.

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The high-tech gear will also be used in specialist maxillofacial surgery.

It will be used to treat many diseases, injuries and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws, and mouth.

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust ear, nose and throat (ENT) consultant, Mr Anu Daudia, said: “Our old equipment served patients well for many years.

“But new technology had made it outdated.

“Investing substantially in new microscopes means East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust is able to continue providing high quality, effective ENT and maxillofacial treatment for many years to come.”

Both new microscopes offer the trust’s ENT and maxillofacial surgeons the very latest optical technology including crystal-clear image quality and the option to record and view high-definition video of the patient.

Mr Daudia said: “The new instruments offer much clearer illumination, with synchronised magnification and improved ergonomics so the surgeon has to spend less time refocusing, which means less interruption.”

Both microscopes are manufactured by Leica, a world leader in providing hospitals with innovative microscopy, camera and software solutions.

Executive member for health and adult social care at Blackburn with Darwen Council, Cllr Mohammed Khan, said: “This is good news.

“Doctors will be able to do their job better and quicker.

“And people will be more confident.

“People are quite happy with the service at Royal Blackburn Hospital.

“But new technology works better.

“It will also save money in the long term.”

One of the key concerns for ENT surgeons - or otolaryngologists - is helping patients recover from diseases that affect their hearing and balance.

They also deal with aspects of breathing, eating, and speaking.

Otolaryngoloists also deal with cancer, plastic surgery, and reconstructive facial work.