Survivor Thanks ED Team After Life-Saving Surgery

A man whose life was saved by the emergency team at Arrowe Park Hospital has returned to personally thank the staff who carried out a rare and complex procedure to save him.

Peter Murdoch visited the Emergency Department (ED) to express his heartfelt gratitude after surviving a life-threatening cardiac emergency.

In a dramatic turn of events, the 63-year-old physiotherapist from Wallasey, required an emergency Clamshell Thoracotomy—a rare surgical procedure to relieve a cardiac tamponade, a condition where blood builds up around the heart, preventing it from beating properly.

The ED team performed the procedure before he was transferred to Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital for ongoing care.

Now on the road to recovery, Peter said he felt “truly humbled to be here” and could not thank the staff enough for their efforts on that critical day.

Dr Ryan Ghodrat, Emergency Medicine Consultant and Trust Trauma Lead, said: “Being able to put my years of training and experience to use in a case like this is extremely rewarding and reminds me how privileged I am to work in a role that has such a profound impact on people’s lives.”

Dr Ghodrat also emphasised the importance of quick and decisive action in cases like this, as well as highlighting the teamwork from other specialists in Cardiology and Critical Care who helped to ensure Peter was quickly stabilised and transferred to Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital by NWAS colleagues.

Peter said: “I understand how fortunate I am to be here. It’s a humbling experience, and while the journey to recovery is still a work in progress, I’m grateful to everyone who has helped me.” Peter continues his rehabilitation with the support of his family and friends, and his return to thank the team serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of expert emergency care.

Dr Ghodrat added: “Moments like this remind us why we do what we do. Mr Murdoch’s survival is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together. I wish him all the best on his journey to recovery.”

Photo Caption: Dr Ryan Ghodrat, Peter Murdoch and Dr Ananda Arasaratnam