Princess Anne has paid a meaningful visit to a leading neurosciences hospital to celebrate a major milestone in stroke treatment and honour a trailblazing woman who helped shape the future of neurosurgery. The Princess Royal visited The Walton Centre in Liverpool on Friday, 9 October, where she marked the completion of 1,000 thrombectomy procedures.
Photographs shared by the hospital on X captured Anne learning more about the specialist work that has transformed outcomes for patients experiencing strokes. During her visit, Anne spoke with members of the interventional neuroradiology team responsible for carrying out the treatment, as well as former patient Jess Tierney, who underwent a thrombectomy in 2024 after suffering a stroke at just 29 years old.
Jess shared her experience with the royal, explaining how the procedure had influenced her recovery and rehabilitation. "I know that having a thrombectomy made such a difference to my recovery and rehabilitation," she said.
"I was delighted to be able to share my experience with The Princess Royal and talk about the difference the staff at The Walton Centre made to my life." Dr Mohammad Altibi, a consultant interventional neuroradiologist at the hospital, said it was an honour to demonstrate the work of his team and explain how minimally invasive treatments were making a difference to patients.
The hospital's commitment to innovation remains a cornerstone of its mission to provide world-class neurological care. Anne also visited the newly refurbished Beck Theatre Department, named after Diana Beck in recognition of her remarkable contribution to neurosurgery.
As Britain's first female neurosurgeon, Beck's legacy continues to inspire generations of medical professionals who strive for excellence in the operating theatre. The ceremony was also attended by Alex Hills, a grandson of Beck's cousin, who welcomed the recognition of her legacy in front of the Princess Royal.
The event served as a poignant reminder of the progress made in medical science over the decades. The Walton Centre remains the only specialist hospital trust in the UK dedicated to providing comprehensive neurology, neurosurgery, spinal and pain management services.
The visit by the Princess Royal highlights the critical importance of these services in the modern healthcare landscape. Staff members expressed their gratitude for the royal visit, noting that it provided a significant morale boost to the entire clinical team.
The recognition of both historical pioneers and current medical breakthroughs underscores the hospital's ongoing dedication to patient-centered care. As the healthcare sector continues to evolve, the integration of advanced technology and the preservation of historical contributions remain vital.
The Princess Royal's engagement with the staff and patients at The Walton Centre reflects a deep appreciation for the complexities of neurosurgical practice. The day concluded with a tour of the facilities, where the Princess Royal observed the state-of-the-art equipment used in complex procedures.
This visit stands as a testament to the enduring impact of dedicated medical professionals on the lives of countless patients across the United Kingdom.