Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has opened a new cardiac pacing suite at Stepping Hill Hospital, which will provide state of the art care for residents in the area.

This larger, modern, safe suite is a purpose-built environment for investigations and procedures for patients with a wide array of suspected heart conditions. 

Services provided include pacemaker implantations and box changes, diagnostics, pre-operative clinics, and echocardiograms.

The new suite provides easier access to the recovery area from the lab, a consultation room for face-to-face clinics, as well as improved staff facilities. There is also new technology in place, such as cardiac monitoring screens and surgical panels which can control humidity and temperature.

Around 1600 patients will be taking diagnostic tests in the new suite each year, and around 600 patients will undergo procedures either as inpatients or outpatients. 

The suite was opened by legendary footballer Steve McManaman, one of the most decorated English players to play abroad.  

Mark Scott, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust clinical director for cardiology services, said: "It's fantastic that the new cardiac pacing suite unit is now up and running, and providing the high quality treatment and diagnosis which our patients need.  

"With an enhanced lab and expansion of our diagnostic capacity the cardiac pacing suite will support us in meeting our increasing demand. 

"We'd like to say a big thank you to Steve McManaman for lending his support to the opening of this fantastic new unit."