Health Minister opens first-of-its-kind facility for head and neck cancers

MedTech & Diagnostics News: A first-of-its-kind prosthetics lab has been unveiled at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. Federal Health Minister, Mark Butler MP, opened the Integrated Prosthetics and Reconstruction (IPR) Laboratory which focuses on optimising the affordable, functional, and aesthetic rehabilitation of oral cancer patients undergoing reconstructive surgery.

Professor Michael Boyer AM, CEO of Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, says that the IPR lab opening is a great step in the transformation of the reconstructive surgery field and is a fitting addition to the halls of Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.

“At Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of innovation and patient care, with a patient-focused outcome always top of mind. We’re so grateful for the support of the Walker Family Foundation that allows us to bring personalised reconstruction to our patients, and eventually to patients all across Australia.”

The IPR lab’s potential to change the face of head and neck reconstructive surgery is not limited to patients of Chris O’Brien Lifehouse as it was unveiled with the hope that through its commercialisation capabilities, researchers and engineers can take their findings far and improve outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.

Minister Butler said “The IPR Lab is a testament to Chris O`Brien Lifehouse’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and patient care. The Walker Family Foundation’s generosity has not only contributed to the establishment of this state-of-the-art facility but has also added momentum to our shared goal of significantly improving health outcomes for people living with cancer in New South Wales and beyond.”

Professor Jonathan Clark AM, Walker Family Foundation Chair in Head and Neck Cancer Reconstructive Surgery, agrees that the IPR lab is a demonstration of game-changing cancer care.

“Head and neck cancers and the associated treatment can’t be hidden. The opening of the IPR lab means that people navigating their already difficult cancer journey can rest assured we are best placed to help them recover to the best standard possible.”

Representing the Walker Family Foundation, Walker Corporation Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer David Gallant said Lang Walker was very proud to support this monumental moment for cancer care in Australia.

“Lang had an incredible passion for the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and he was humbled by the profound impact it has had on countless patients and their families. The IPR laboratory will make an incredible difference to those navigating their cancer journey and the Walker Family Foundation is proud to continue its support for innovative and cutting-edge medical technology, to improve health outcomes for all Australians.”

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