Pre-screening device promises better access to orthopedic treatment

Health and Social Services Minister Keith Peterson said that 12 Nunavummiut will undergo knee replacement surgery in Ottawa later this month as part of new partnership between the Qikiqtani General Hospital and the Ottawa Health Services Network. (PHOTO BY SARAH ROGERS)

Iqaluit’s Qikiqtani General Hospital has teamed up with the Ottawa Health Services Network to help prioritize Nunavummiut patients in need of orthopedic treatment.

The Ottawa network has already supplied a team of orthopedic surgeons who have visited the QGH and other Nunavut communities since 1997.

But major surgeries, such as total joint replacements, are referred to the Ottawa Hospital.

There, the waiting list for knee replacement surgeries have grown significantly in recent years, Health and Social Services Minister Keith Peterson said in the Nunavut legislature March 7.

Now Nunavummiut requiring knee replacements may get faster access to their surgeries.

Through a new project, a pre-screening tool will help identify what kind of treatment people need, Peterson said.

In a knee replacement procedure, a surgeon removes the damaged joint and then places a metal and plastic implant.

But some knee-pain sufferers don’t require surgery and can benefit from other treatments or exercises.

Rehabilitation staff in Nunavut have received instruction booklets from the Ottawa Hospital for knee surgeries and knee exercises in Inuktitut, to help prepare people for possible surgery.

Later this month, Peterson said that 12 Nunavummiut will undergo knee replacement surgery in Ottawa at no additional cost to the Government of Nunavut.

“We are hopeful that this project will improve patients screening and preparation while reducing travel and stress leading to improved recovery time,” Peterson told the assembly.