Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH)

Introduction to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH)

The Private Care Division of the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, also known as RNOH, is part of a world-renowned major orthopedic hospital. Its orthopedic services are recognized as leading in the United Kingdom and internationally.

The hospital provides a comprehensive range of neuromusculoskeletal treatments, from acute spinal cord injury and complex bone tumors to orthopedic medicine and specialist rehabilitation for chronic back pain. Such a broad scope of services is unique within the National Health Service, also known as the NHS.

As an international center of excellence, RNOH Private Care provides treatment for adult and pediatric patients from around the world. Many patients are referred by consultants from other hospitals for a second medical opinion, while others are referred for the treatment of complex or rare conditions.

Many of the hospital’s consultant specialists have expertise and skills recognized both in the United Kingdom and internationally. The work of RNOH consultants is also supported by nurses, therapists, and specialists across all clinical fields related to orthopedics.

RNOH plays an important role in medical education. According to data provided by the hospital, 20% of orthopedic surgeons in the United Kingdom have received training at RNOH. Its collaboration with University College London in research, development, and academic programs has greatly strengthened the hospital’s teaching and clinical quality.

RNOH works closely with other hospitals and trusts to ensure that patients receive the specialist treatment they need. Patients also have access to the on-site ASPIRE Health and Leisure Centre, which provides high-quality and comfortable facilities for both able-bodied individuals and those requiring assistance.

History of the Hospital

1. Founded in 1905

RNOH was founded in 1905 through the merger of three specialist orthopedic hospitals in London. Its long history can be traced back even further, to 1838. The hospital has two campuses: the main campus in Stanmore and a branch campus on Bolsover Street in central London.

During the First World War, RNOH became an emergency hospital for the military and, in early 1918, admitted soldiers discharged due to injury and disability. During this period, King George V and Queen Mary visited the hospital twice.

In 1930, RNOH became a pioneering hospital in the treatment of spinal poliomyelitis and tuberculosis. In the early 20th century, RNOH helped drive major advances in the treatment of orthopedic diseases. Progress in scientific research improved diagnostic accuracy, especially in the early stages of disease. This meant that even patients who could not be cured had opportunities for relief from pain and disability.

2. Became a Postgraduate Training Hospital in 1945

After RNOH became a postgraduate training hospital, proposals were made to establish an orthopedic research institute in partnership with the hospital. In 1964, Sir Herbert Seddon was knighted for establishing the institute and promoting collaboration between the two centers.

3. Joined the National Health Service in 1948

When the NHS was established, RNOH became an independent teaching hospital and continued to develop in orthopedics. From 1950 onward, it began treating scoliosis, back disorders, leg-length discrepancy, hand injuries, and peripheral nerve injuries.

Training and research became important parts of the hospital’s work. Later, the hospital established dedicated departments to provide training and education for medical students and nurses from the United Kingdom and other countries.

4. Royal Visit in 1979

Using funds raised by the British Motor Racing Drivers’ Association, also known as BMRDA, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales established a rehabilitation assessment department at RNOH in 1979.

After years of research into spinal cord injury treatment, RNOH established its spinal cord injury unit. The London Spinal Cord Injury Centre was officially opened by Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales in 1984.

5. RNOH Today

Today, RNOH is recognized as a pioneering center of excellence for its comprehensive range of neuromusculoskeletal treatments, covering everything from acute spinal cord injury and complex bone tumors to orthopedic medicine and specialist rehabilitation for back pain.

One in every five orthopedic surgeons in the United Kingdom has received training at RNOH. The hospital continues to lead innovative research through the Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Science, also known as IOMS.