Civil Hospital to have high-tech modular Ots

Theatres will provide sterile environment during surgeries

KARACHI:

The Civil Hospital Karachi is set to receive three state-of-the-art modular operation theatres, designed to meet international infection-control standards. The project, estimated to cost up to Rs450 million, is expected to be functional within two months.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Medical Superintendent Dr?Khalid Bukhari said that the modular OT plan was under consideration for two years. It has officially been approved in the 2025-26 fiscal year. Credit for the scheme goes to Sindh Health Minister Dr?Azra Fazal Pechuho and Health Secretary Dr?Rehan Baloch. Under the provincial initiative, 15 modular OTs will be built across Sindh, with three at Civil Hospital Karachi.

Dr?Bukhari noted that while private hospitals in Karachi already have modular OTs, this is going to be the first time that such facilities are installed in a government hospital in the city. He explained that these theatres provide a sterile environment during surgery with HEPA filters, ensuring continuous clean air for both the surgeon as well as the patient.

Key features of the modular OTs include airtight doors, dedicated air-handling units, antibacterial flooring, and the use of stainless steel or antimicrobial materials to facilitate cleaning and prevent microbial growth.

Temperature, airflow, lighting, and gas systems are all fully controlled, with shadowless lights and automatic doors aiding surgical precision. Compared to traditional OTs, modular versions drastically cut down the risk of infection.

Currently, the hospital has 14 conventional operating theatres, where surgeons handle complex cancer and other long procedures lasting six to eight hours.

In this context, modular OTs have become essential.

Dr?Bukhari said that approval for the three theatres has been secured and a request for four more will be submitted soon.

He mentioned that all equipment including tables, head lights, and related hardware will be imported. "These modern OTs will be a boon not only for medical staff but also for patients," he added.