Liverpool Hospital has inaugurated an integrated multimodality interventional radiology suite (IRS), which is claimed to be the first such facility in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.
The facility forms part of the A$830m ($548.2m) Liverpool health and academic precinct (LHAP) redevelopment's first phase. It brings together ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), angiogram, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at one centralised location.
The IR‑MACS suite is claimed to allow patients to have their complex combined procedures performed without changing tables and with increased precision.
The IRS facility supports minimally invasive interventions, including the elimination of cancer cells in tumours and the occlusion of aneurysm blood flow.
The unit features three advanced rooms with wide-bore MRI technology, a ceiling-mounted angiographic suite and an interventional CT. The equipment operates individually or as an integrated unit, whilst specialist staff deliver care in radiation-free environments, thereby enhancing safety protocols.
The IR-MACS infrastructure supports new acute healthcare approaches while providing purpose-built facilities for contemporary clinical practice.
Demolition works for phase two of the LHAP redevelopment are underway. This phase will deliver a second integrated services building, including a cancer centre, wellness centre and an expanded children’s and women’s ambulatory care. The project expects completion in 2027.
NSW health minister Ryan Park said: "By the early 2030s, more than 1.2 million people are expected to call southwestern Sydney home.
"It is critical that cutting-edge services such as the incredible new Interventional Radiology suite are a major focus of the A$830m Liverpool Health and Academic Precinct to ensure the community continues to receive world-class care close to home."
Liverpool Hospital general manager Scott McGrath said: “The opening of the new IR-MACS suite represents a new era in care for Liverpool Hospital.
“The amazing IR-MACS technology provides minimally invasive treatments, which stop bleeding, shrink tumours and save lives often in a single day.
“The Liverpool Health and Academic Precinct redevelopment is creating a centre for innovation and health research to provide a world-class working environment for our highly skilled clinicians and staff.’’
