About the service
The respiratory team provides services for people with a wide range of lung problems.
We have an outstanding team of nurses, doctors, physiotherapists and respiratory specialist Occupation Therapist. Our lung function laboratory provides comprehensive measurements of lung capacity and function. We work closely with our radiology, oncology and palliative care colleagues to provide a holistic and seamless service.
Our Respiratory wards at Queen Elizabeth hospital is Ward 9 & Ward 10 work closely together. The wards are led by Sister Helen Kerr (Ward 9) and Sister Leanne Tippins (ward 10), and is consistently among the best wards in our hospital for patient feedback and quality of care. The QE Respiratory team are active in teaching and training of medical students and junior doctors.
We take part in a number of research projects, and we aim to ensure that our patients are given the opportunity to take part in clinical trials wherever possible in order to improve the understanding and treatment of diseases of the lungs.
Services we offer
Asthma
We provide expert assessment, diagnosis and management guidance for patients with asthma. Our service includes state-of-the-art therapy with new treatments for allergic asthma such as Xolair. For more information on asthma, please visit the British Lung Foundation – Asthma website.
Lung cancer
We run a fast-track service for patients referred with suspected lung cancer; all patients are seen within 14 days.
Our lung cancer specialist nurses provide support and counselling and coordinate the team of consultants and junior doctors to provide best possible care for patients facing a diagnosis of lung cancer.
All patients receive the benefit of full discussion of their case by the Lung Cancer Multidisciplinary team of chest physicians, radiologist, pathologist and oncologist to ensure that we make accurate diagnoses and provide the best available care for this difficult disease.
We work closely with our surgical colleagues in Newcastle to ensure that patients with operable lung cancer are treated rapidly. Dr Stiller runs a Pleural Clinic based on ward 9 providing IPC.
Our excellent Lung Cancer service is lead by Dr Stiller and Dr Sharrock. For more information on lung cancer, please visit the Macmillan Lung Cancer Support website.
Asbestos related problems
The North East has an industrial heritage that includes ship-building and other industries that used asbestos. Many people in Gateshead have been exposed to asbestos and may develop a range of lung conditions caused by asbestos.
The most common abnormalities are pleural plaques. These are marks visible on a chest Xray. Pleural plaques are not serious and do not cause symptoms. We provide advice and guidance for people with all asbestos related conditions.
For more information, please visit:
Unexplained breathlessness
A frequent reason for referral to our clinics is unexplained breathlessness. We offer a comprehensive assessment of this problem to identify the cause and offer appropriate advice and treatment.
Also liaising with the multidisciplinary team involving the Long Covid Management team.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is becoming more common again in the UK. We offer a comprehensive TB service including an expert TB nurse.