Milestone Moment: 1,000th elective orthopaedic procedure completed at new Princess of Wales Hospital centre

A major milestone has been reached at the new elective orthopaedic hub at Princess of Wales Hospital, as the team completes its 1,000th elective orthopaedic procedure since reopening in September 2025.

Bringing all elective orthopaedic care under one roof at the hospital has transformed planned orthopaedic care for patients across the region. With three dedicated arthroplasty theatres protected exclusively for elective patients, the service has significantly increased capacity while reducing waiting times for surgery.

Orthopaedic specialists at the centre can focus on delivering high-quality, streamlined care for patients requiring joint replacements and other orthopaedic procedures. By separating elective surgery from emergency pressures, the protected theatre model ensures procedures can go ahead as planned, minimising cancellations and delays.

As a result, patients are receiving their treatment more quickly and benefiting from shorter hospital stays. Enhanced recovery pathways and early mobilisation support have helped many patients return home sooner and begin their rehabilitation.

The milestone 1,000th procedure was carried out on Owen Morgan, 22, from Maesteg. Owen underwent elective orthopaedic surgery at the centre and is already making good progress with his recovery, supported by the specialist team.

Owen said: “I can’t thank the staff enough for the care I’ve received. From the first appointment to my surgery and recovery, everyone has been so supportive and reassuring. The team explained everything clearly and made me feel completely at ease. I’m really grateful for how smoothly everything has gone.”

The procedure was carried out by the centre’s dedicated orthopaedic team, which includes surgeons, anaesthetists, theatre staff, nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists working collaboratively to provide seamless care from pre-assessment through to post-operative rehabilitation.

Gethin Hughes, Chief Operating Office for Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said:

“Reaching our 1,000th elective procedure is a significant achievement for the entire team. The relocation of all elective orthopaedic services to Princess of Wales Hospital has enabled us to protect planned care, reduce waiting times and improve outcomes for our patients. I am incredibly proud of the commitment and professionalism shown by everyone involved.”

Ward Manager Claire Pearcy said: “As a newly formed team of staff, we are all seeing the benefits of working in this new streamlined way. We are able to provide dedicated support to our orthopaedic patients which improves the experience of our patients.”