IWK Health is laying claim to some surgical firsts thanks to the addition of a new piece of imaging equipment that will improve patient care at the hospital.
The O-Arm imaging system was used in a pediatric spinal surgery performed late last month in what was the first ever surgery performed in Canada using the latest version of the equipment, which now combines advanced 3D software with low radiation exposure.
“An O-Arm allows surgeons to more efficiently place screws during spinal surgery with the utmost precision using a 3D image,” says Dr. Kevin Morash, IWK orthopedic surgeon. “It allows us to offer our patients care using the latest cutting-edge surgical imaging technology ensuring the highest standard of patient safety.”
Dr. Morash and his colleague Dr. Ben Orlik were the surgeons who performed the Canadian first on patient Molly Johnston, 14.
The Moncton teen is a dancer whose scoliosis had been causing her increasing back pain and muscle fatigue the last few years. She is now back home recovering following the successful surgery.
“We felt really fortunate that Molly could benefit from such advanced imaging and care at IWK,” said Marsha Johnston, her mother. “This has been one of the hardest experiences our family has gone through, and everyone at IWK consistently made us feel supported, informed, and cared for throughout the entire process.”
The addition of the O-Arm to IWK means all spine surgeries can be performed with this level of precision, reducing the potential for complications and improving patient experience. The imaging system wraps around the operating table and provides real-time images of a patient's anatomy during surgery. Primarily used in spine, orthopedic, and trauma-related surgeries, it allows surgeons to visualize the surgical site using the 3D image and make adjustments during the procedure.
Another trail blazing first took place less than a week later when Dr. Karl Logan used the O-Arm for a pelvic osteotomy surgery, which is the first time this upgraded technology was used for that kind of surgery (or any non-spine surgery) in Canada.
“There will be many firsts taking place here at IWK, now that we have this unique equipment,” said Dr. Morash. “It is exciting to see my colleagues’ enthusiasm about the O-arm, and how it can be applied across other areas of surgery to maximize its impact.”
Funds raised through the 2025 Kent Great Big Dig for the IWK helped support the purchase of this cutting-edge imaging technology.
“The power of community was on full display and the generosity, kindness, and greatness witnessed during the 2025 Kent Great Big Dig was truly humbling,” says Jennifer Gillivan, President & CEO, IWK Foundation. “Our donor community came together in a big way to ensure that Maritime patients and families have access to the highest standard of care for orthopedic surgery. It is what they deserve.”