Cutting-edge neurosurgery revealed in extraordinary national documentary series

The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust will feature in a fascinating documentary series over the next eight weeks, about neurosurgery at the specialist hospital this autumn.

In 'Trauma Room One' viewers will see patient stories from cutting-edge robotic spinal surgery to urgent stroke interventions, all led by leading staff at the specialist hospital. The series starts on Wednesday 25 October until mid-December.

Medical Director and Deputy Chief Executive Dr Andy Nicolson said: “When we were initially approached to take part in the series, we wanted to make sure that viewers got an insight into what goes on behind the operating theatre doors. To see, not only the incredible skill of our experienced neurosurgeons, but the multidisciplinary approach our whole team brings to patient care. From the nursing and therapies teams, to the scrub nurses and operation department practitioners, everyone’s hard work is visible in this gripping series, and I couldn’t be prouder of the service they provide to our patients.”

The series features robotic spinal surgery, used to improve precision during procedures and reduce operation time which can enable patients to recover quicker. The Walton Centre is the leading hospital in the UK using robotics in this way to treat patients. The series also highlights the 24/7 thrombectomy service for stroke patients, which was introduced two years ago, a first in the north west.

Consultant Neurosurgeon Mr Farouk Olubajo features in the series, he said: “It was an odd experience at first having the camera crews in. But soon enough they became a part of everyday life in neurosurgery! They have covered some fascinating procedures, that can really transform a patients lives, so I’m hopeful that viewers will get a real insight into what goes on day-to-day here at The Walton Centre. Our theatre department are outstanding, and I’m glad their hard work will be there for people to see.”

Executive Producer of Renegade Stories Livia Simoka said: “We wanted to really lift the lid on the extraordinary neurosurgery that was happening at The Walton Centre. It’s been an amazing project, working with some inspirational NHS staff to record thoughtful and at times emotional patient stories.”

The first episode airs 9pm on 5Star and My 5 Wednesday 25 October.