Andy, 40, is a consultant orthopaedic in spinal surgery looking after children and adults with deformity, scoliosis and abnormal curvatures of their spine. He also covers acute trauma, tumours and infection around the spine and sees patients in clinics as well as performing operations.
As an associate sub dean of medicine at Newcastle University, he also runs the undergraduate teaching and has been with the trust for 6 years, having qualified from Aberdeen in 2004 and subsequently trained in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Liverpool (Mersey rotation), Newcastle and Brisbane, Australia.
Outside of work he enjoys travelling, whisky and wine.
What made you get into this area of medicine?
I get to look after patients of all ages, from babies to the elderly and enjoy doing complex, technical spinal surgery.
What is the favourite part of your work?
The benefit a great spinal operation can have on patients and their families. This is life-changing surgery that really makes an obvious difference to patients – it’s quick reward which can have a huge impact.
What would you say to someone who is interested in progressing a similar career?
Take your time with training and work in as many different parts of the country / world as you can.
Why did you want to be part of it / what cases were specific to filming?
Filming for me entailed carrying out an operation on a girl’s scoliosis. It has been great opportunity to highlight the complex work carried out in Newcastle and the amazing team that makes it all happen. It’s been tiring at times but very different and good to be involved.
