Smithfield launch marks new era in breast cancer care
The first patients have now been treated in the new Smithfield Wing at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, marking a major milestone in the development of a specialist breast cancer centre for east London.
Operations began this week as part of a phased opening that will bring breast surgery, oncology, research and clinical trials together on a single site.
This integrated model is designed to improve access to the latest treatments and enhance patients’ overall experience.
Operating theatres on the fourth floor and the second floor ward are now open. Further services will follow, with gynaecology fertility day-case surgery due to begin on 1 April and imaging services on the ground floor expected to open later in the month.
The neighbouring Giltspur Wing is scheduled to open in May.
Together, the two new hospital wings will provide purpose-built, modern facilities designed around patients’ needs, complementing the wide range of services already offered across the hospital campus.
Justin Creigh, deputy chief executive at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, said: "This marks a significant step forward for breast cancer services across east London. The Smithfield Wing gives us a dedicated space for breast surgery, helping to improve both patient experience and clinical outcomes."
The project has been made possible through a £16.6 million investment from Barts Charity.
Once fully operational, the centre is expected to deliver more than 2,000 breast cancer surgeries and around 75,000 outpatient appointments across all specialties each year.
The opening fulfils a long-held ambition to model breast care on the hospital’s internationally recognised Barts Heart Centre.
First proposed as part of St Bartholomew’s 900th anniversary campaign in 2023, that vision is now becoming a reality for patients.
The first patient treated in the new wing was 46‑year‑old Vanya, a designer from east London (pictured), who was originally diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017.
She was undergoing a procedure to bring her breasts into alignment following earlier operations, which had also taken place at St Bartholomew’s. Vanya was treated by consultant surgeon Laura Johnson, who has cared for her for several years. The procedure was a day‑case, allowing Vanya to go home the same day.
Vanya said she was immediately struck by the modern facilities, the privacy afforded to patients, and the welcoming atmosphere created by the team.
"It’s so new, clean and welcoming," she said. "I felt really well looked after. The surroundings are lovely, and the team were smiling and so supportive, that’s 50% of the journey for me.
"It’s not just about being physically healthy, but emotionally stable too. The team have been brilliant."
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