Manx Care is making it possible for more patients to receive their care closer to home, as the first ever total shoulder replacement takes place on the Isle of Man.
This marks the first of a variety of orthopaedic treatments and procedures, previously undertaken off-Island, that will now take place at Noble’s Hospital.
Over the last 18 months, a multidisciplinary team effort has helped develop and establish the Upper Limb Orthopaedic Service, to include both trauma and elective services. Colleagues across Theatres, Physiotherapy, Radiology, Wards, Specialist Nursing and Management have worked together to set this up, helping to ensure that people receive the right care, at the right time, and in the right place.
The first procedure (a total shoulder replacement) took place on 05 November 2026 – an operation that can offer significant relief for patients living with arthritis when non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, helping to reduce pain and restore shoulder function.
The shoulder system was provided by Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies. Nurse Martin Corlett and Surgeon Mr Nasri Zreik worked with the company to organise their collaboration with Manx Care, supporting the high-quality service now being provided on the Isle of Man.
Mr Nasri Zreik (Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon), said:
‘Being able to provide this surgery locally is a real step forward for patients and the wider community. It means patients can have their treatment, from initial assessment and surgery through to rehabilitation and aftercare, without the added stress, expense and inconvenience of travelling off-Island. Just as importantly, our patients can recover closer to home, surrounded by their family and support networks.
‘Since moving to the Isle of Man, I have been made to feel incredibly welcome, and it means a great deal to be able to contribute to the healthcare available to the Island’s community.
‘There is still much we hope to achieve as the service continues to develop, with the aim of bringing more treatments to the Island and reducing the need for patients to travel for care that can be safely and effectively delivered here.
‘I am extremely grateful to everyone who has contributed their time, expertise and support to making this possible, including the Stryker team.’
Pictured above left to right: Ploy Panichapan (Scrub Nurse), Dawn Quesada (Scrub Nurse), Dr. Bethany Shiell (Clinical Fellow), Mr. Marius Sainiuc (Associate Specialist), Mr Nasri Zreik (Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon), Mr Sean Crerand (Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon), Dr. Kate Teare (Anaesthetist), Abisola Inyang (Registered Nurse)
