SURGEONS from around the world came to Droitwich Spa to watch pioneering knee surgery.

The international group recently visited Droitwich Knee Clinic, in St Andrews Road, to watch a surgeon perform a live operation.

Mohi El-Shazly, from the St Andrews Road clinic, demonstrated the Optetrak Knee System, which was designed at the Hospital for Special Surgery, in New York, and is used for total knee replacement operations.

A live two-way commentary from the operating theatre to the clinic foundation rooms was set up where the 40 orthopaedic surgeons could watch and ask questions.

Mr El-Shazly has used the system at the Droitwich Knee Clinic for about two years and believes that although most knee replacements are now a success, the Optektrak system is the most efficient available because of the low wear rate of the plastic components.

Clinic manager, Elizabeth Watson, said: "There is a keen interest in developing education and research in knee surgery and this meeting was a fine opportunity for prominent knee surgeons to share and improve knowledge."

Mr Hayward, who underwent the surgery, is said to be 'over the moon' with his operation and has achieved a good range of movement in the knee.