A crack bowls player from Wembley has become the first person in London to undergo a high-tech computer-guided shoulder replacement procedure.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Nick Ferran carrying out the procedure. Picture: London North West University Healthcare NHS TrustNick Ferran carrying out the procedure. Picture: London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust (Image: Archant)

Olivia Lovesey’s surgery was carried out by Nick Ferran at Central Middlesex Hospital in Park Royal.

The procedure is done without general anaesthetic and aims to help elderly patients who suffer from severe cases of arthritis.

Olivia, 87, was the captain of her local bowls team before she developed arthritis seven years ago. “The pain was excruciating and it got to a point where I couldn’t lift my arms much higher than my waist and was losing a lot of strength in my hands,” she said.

The surgery uses an infrared camera and computer to create a 3D image of the patient’s bone, allowing surgeons to position the implant precisely.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Olivia Lovesey. Picture: London North West University Healthcare NHS TrustOlivia Lovesey. Picture: London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust (Image: Archant)

“It works well for patients and this advance means I can be even more precise with their surgery,” said Mr Ferran.