PATIENTS at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital are set to benefit from new equipment bought with £200,000 raised by the League of Friends.

The money, raised through legacies left to the charity and donations from members of the public and local companies, has meant new equipment has been purchased for the Urology department.

Two specialist cameras have been bought for the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer to enable surgeons to see inside the bladder without the need for surgery, reducing patient discomfort and recovery time.

The money was also used for an ultrasound machine designed specifically for anaesthesia to optimise pain relief during major surgery and special trolleys which can be used for both surgery and recovery, lessening the number of times the patient needs to be moved, helping them to remain comfortable.

In addition, the funds enabled the purchase of diathermy machines used in theatre to control blood loss.

Rach Frances, urology clinical leader at the hospital, said: “This equipment will make a direct impact on the comfort of patients, reducing discomfort, aid recovery and improving outcomes for patients.

“We are very grateful to the League of Friends for support in helping us to provide the best care for local people.”

Janella Banks, secretary to the League of Friends, added: “The members of the League of Friends have a great sense of satisfaction in helping the hospital, patients and staff with this sort of funding.

“We always have smaller commitments on the go for different departments of the hospital, so we never stop the hard work. We thank all those who have helped.”