San launches Australia’s most advanced neurosurgery theatre

Last week, we officially launched our new Interventional Neuroradiology Theatre, a major milestone for Sydney Adventist Hospital and a significant advancement in neurological care for patients across New South Wales.

The theatre was officially unveiled by the Member for Wahroonga, Alister Henskens SC MP at the launch event on 1 April, attended by clinicians, staff, donors, media and community leaders, including the Mayors of Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai.

Made possible through donations to the San Foundation, the new Interventional Neuroradiology Theatre is now the most advanced neurosurgery theatre in Australia, and only the second of its kind in the world. The facility is designed to transform how stroke, brain aneurysms and other complex neurological conditions are treated.

Head of Neurosurgery at the San, Clinical Professor Brian Owler, says the theatre will have a profound impact on both patient outcomes and clinical capability.

“By combining advanced biplane imaging with open neurosurgery in a single operating room, we can diagnose and treat patients in real time, without delays caused by transfers,” ClinProf Owler says.

“For clinicians, it enhances speed, efficiency, and confidence when performing highly complex procedures, particularly in stroke and aneurysm cases where every minute matters. It also enables a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach, bringing together neurosurgery, interventional neuroradiology, and stroke services in one place. Importantly, it allows us to offer the full scope of complex neurovascular procedures here at the San, giving patients access to comprehensive care without leaving the hospital.”

Adventist HealthCare CEO Brett Goods says the investment reflects the San’s commitment to delivering world-class care to the community.

“Stroke affects more than 55,000 Australians every year and remains one of the leading causes of death and disability,” says Mr Goods. 

“We know rapid intervention can significantly improve outcomes, which is why this new theatre is so important. It ensures patients can access advanced, life-saving care quickly and close to home, while allowing us to treat more neurological patients on site.”

This investment positions the San as a leading centre of excellence in neurosurgery and stroke care in Australia, building on its recent recognition as the first private hospital in the country to receive an Angels Award from the World Stroke Organisation, achieving gold status for excellence in stroke care.

The launch has already attracted media attention, including coverage from Nine News Sydney.

Watch the story below.