Published Thursday 8 Feb 2018

Capital & Coast DHB is notifying medical practices and patients who had heart surgery at Wellington Regional Hospital involving cardio-pulmonary bypass during the past five years.

We have learned that a germ may have been present in a device used during the surgery, and may have infected a small number of patients worldwide. The risk of this occurring is extremely low – around 0.02 percent.

We believe the risk to our Wellington patients is even lower because we have very modern operating theatres with excellent air-handling systems. We have tested the airflow and do not believe air from the HCU would mix with the ultra-clean air protecting the patient’s operation area.

If people have concerns or would like more information, they should contact:

  • Healthline on 0800 611 116
  • Their GP practice or medical centre
  • Capital & Coast District Health Board via cardiacquery@ccdhb.org.nz, or leave a voice message at 0800 155429 and they will be contacted within three working days.

People calling or emailing the DHB should include their full name, date of birth, current address and phone number.

Media contact: Chas Te Runa– 027 230 9571