University Hospital Southampton (UHS) has welcomed back endoscopy patients to two specialist mobile units, ten weeks after a fire destroyed the original unit.

The two specialist mobile endoscopy units are located opposite the main entrance of the hospital and will remain in place for at least the next two years as extensive repair work is carried out within the West Wing of the hospital.

The new suites include reception areas, consulting and procedure rooms as well as recovery areas.

A fire took place after 5.30am on Sunday 1 February, with more than 500 patients evacuated in 40 minutes. 110 firefighters worked to get the blaze under control.

Since the fire, only emergency, inpatient and therapeutic endoscopies have been possible at UHS. This was thanks to the swift repurposing of two theatres plus use of an area within the Trust’s Clinical Research Facility. Other patients were seen at temporary sites including Royal South Hants, Spire, Nuffield and Lymington hospital.

Southampton Hospitals Charity has donated equipment for staff working in the units including microwaves, coffee machines and mugs.

Andy Hyett, chief operating officer at UHS, said: “Bringing patients who require these important diagnostic tests back to UHS is a real milestone in our recovery, which would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our staff.

“We appreciate the impact the disruption caused by the fire has had on our patients and are grateful for their understanding and support during the past ten weeks while we have delivered as much of the service as possible, in a different way.

“Our focus has always been on returning as much of this service, as quickly, safely and efficiently as we can. This is the first step in bringing our patients and staff back together at UHS, while the Trust works on rebuilding the fire damaged area and creating a permanent home for endoscopy services in the future.”