Specialist physiotherapy following limb reconstruction

Project completed as part of the North East London 2023 Green Team Competition by the Limb reconstruction and orthopaedic research departments at the Royal London Hospital (Barts Health NHS Trust).

Setting/Patient Group: Major Trauma Centre

Issue to be addressed:

Patients requiring limb reconstruction require specialist orthopaedic intervention which entails prolonged fixation. Rehabilitation with dedicated physiotherapy input is not currently part of the acute service.

Intervention:

Introduction of a specialist physiotherapist to the limb reconstruction team to deliver early rehabilitation (patients followed either standard pathway or new physiotherapy pathway) and train in circular frame removal alongside specialist nurse team.

Outcome:

Clinical

• Frame removal with assistance of the physiotherapist had reduced waiting time for removal and were less likely to need removal in theatre

Social

• Improved quality of life for patients and significant staff time saved

Environmental

• Projected annual carbon footprint reduction of 1,283 kgCO₂e, an overall reduction of approximately 19.66%.

Economic

• Projected annual savings of £54,622.05 (23% overall saving) after factoring in salary of specialist physiotherapist.

Key learning point

This project shows how early introduction of a specialist physiotherapist following limb reconstruction surgery can improve patient outcomes as well as reduce carbon footprint and save money.

Click here for more information on the Green Team Competition (including organisation impact reports).