Further planned surgery has resumed at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH), with trauma services returning to health system partners this week.

The changes are being made in line with national guidelines and as the country moves into the third phase of the NHS’ response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

This announcement represents the next step towards restoring routine services since all non-emergency elective work was suspended in late March.

The specialist orthopaedic hospital in Gobowen began re-introducing some planned surgery for the most urgent patients in June, with capacity for around 250 patients a month.

The return of trauma services to Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals Trust (SaTH) will free up more capacity, with the Trust planning to run up to 630 cases through its theatres next month

Stacey Keegan, acting chief executive at RJAH, said: “Bringing the trauma services across from SaTH and our Welsh partners at Betsi Cadwaladr has been a significant contribution to the local health system’s Covid-19 response, and is something we are extremely proud of.

“It’s crucial for us to now look ahead, as we wouldn’t be able to resume more of our regular orthopaedic work without the return of trauma services to partners.

“We will seize this opportunity to significantly step up our planned surgery activity, offering relief to hundreds of people who have been forced to wait months for operations that will significantly improve their quality of life.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all colleagues, who have been a part of this work, including those who are part of the Trauma Repatriation Group, which has been set up to oversee the safe return of trauma services.”

Stacey added: “We will be contacting patients as soon as possible about future treatment arrangements, so you do not need to contact us about your surgery.

“If your symptoms related to your condition become worse and you have not heard from us, contact the consultant whose care you are under. Alternatively contact your GP for advice.”

Nigel Lee, chief operating officer at SaTH, said: “We are grateful for the support from RJAH in helping to provide essential services during the pandemic.

“We will continue to work closely together to provide safe services for our patients.”