Firm creates 'hospital in a box'

The CompactOR can be airlifted or fitted in a 4X4 vehicle

A portable operating theatre which can be powered by solar or wind energy has been created by a Kent firm to be used in remote or war-torn areas.

Experts at Global Medical Systems in Sittingbourne invented the CompactOR, also known as a "hospital in a box".

It includes two boxes which can fit in a 4x4 vehicle that unfold to provide lighting, suction, a defibrillator, monitors and a medical tent.

It can also be airlifted and be powered by a pedal or diesel generator.

'Bio-hazard situations'

Alex Bushell, of Global Medical Systems, said: "CompactOR offers a basic and robust portable operating theatre which enables doctors and nurses to perform life-saving surgical procedures.

"It can be used to treat common conditions such as cataracts through to more complex life-threatening conditions.

"It is particularly suited to remote and out of hospital locations, emergency relief environments, marine and off-shore locations and bio-hazard situations."

He said aid agencies, charities and governments had all expressed interest in the theatre and it had received awards at the British Invention Show.