Engineering Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden

Paving the way for breakthrough treatments at a world-class research facility

Sahlgrenska Cancer Centre is a world leading research facility in Sweden dedicated to improving cancer care through scientific discovery and clinical practice. Managed by the University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, the building needed complete remodelling to streamline imaging and surgical procedures, promote collaboration between specialists, and accommodate the most up-to-date technologies.

Location

Gothenburg, Sweden

Client

Region Västra Götaland

Project Status

Completed in 2017, Opened December 2017

Engineering Sahlgrenska University Hospital - Inside the Hospital

Advanced Medical Machines

Imaging and surgery were previously carried out in separate locations, but the new facility was designed to bring them into the same place to enable several specialists to focus on a patient’s needs simultaneously. Achieving this demanded complicated building design work because an extensive range of technologies are involved including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Ultrasound, Computerised Tomography (CT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET). Our team developed sophisticated systems to bring many of these technologies, including advanced X-ray machines and a ceilingmounted mobile MRI into an operating theatre where both imaging and surgery can be performed. During an operation, images are displayed on monitors, both within the room and remotely, to enable specialist clinicians in different locations to monitor and participate in real time.

X-Ray machines are provided with uninterruptable and redundant power supplies

A key challenge was to ensure this facility is adaptable to future advancements in medical technology and to enable Sahlgrenska to stay at the forefront of cancer research and treatment. So we designed robust and flexible solutions: the exterior walls feature removable panels, for example, so that oversized technical equipment can be manoeuvred into the operating theatre, when required. Floor plans are divided into a grid pattern with the same basic structure on each floor for future changes. And the IT infrastructure has spare capacity to manage increasing image data.

Resilient by Design

Installing a fail-safe power supply was critical to the project’s success. The building has two parts, each with its own power supply. By using the connection capability of busbars on each floor, we designed a back-up system whereby one part of the building can support the other if needed. To mitigate start-up time for the emergency diesel generator, we installed a dynamic uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system. UPS is essential for the below-ground cyclotron that supplies the hospital’s PET scanners with radioactive isotopes.

Working with our client, we have developed leading-edge technical solutions to provide Sahlgrenska Cancer Centre with the most advanced facilities fit for the future. Key to our design was creating an optimum spatial structure to provide an effective workspace for clinicians and assure operational security for patients. We also focused on ensuring this highly complex refurbishment scheme enhances Sahlgrenska Cancer Centre’s reputation as one of most advanced of its type in the world.