State-of-the-art "key hole'' medical technology will now allow local patients to recover more quickly than ever before.

Loretta Santucci, Programme Director for the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital's surgical department made the claim on Friday during the opening ceremony of the hospital's new wing and entrance.

Doctors have been specially trained to use surgical video equipment for "minimal invasive'' operations, said Ms Santucci.

Surgeons -- and in some cases even patients -- are able to watch procedures on a TV monitor as they happen inside the body.

The final result is that patients are released sooner than was possible before, said Ms Santucci.

More than 200 dignitaries and invited guests were on hand for the opening of the new $20-million wing on Friday.

However, at least some of the facilities have been in use for several months.

The new extension boasts computer technology throughout its departments and a patient-friendly environment.

On the ground floor an out-patient facility is equipped to treat a variety of different purposes depending on the day of the week.

Adjoining it are the diagnostic imaging and ultrasound rooms, and the diabetes department.

Fully certified physicians care for their patients in the "utmost privacy'' and utilise a mammography machine equal to any other on the Island, said hospital spokeswoman Kendaree Burgess-Fairn.

And the new teaching room of the Diabetes Centre has already been holding group classes with recently diagnosed diabetes sufferers.

Eight to ten patients meet twice a week to learn good eating habits, how to take blood sugar readings, or walk together in the nearby Botanical Gardens.

On the second floor the hospital now has a total of six operating rooms -- surpassing the previous number of rooms available by two.

And Ms Santucci pointed out that all power outlets were located well above floor level to increase cleanliness.

The operating table itself can be easily manoeuvred to accommodate a surgeon's need and anaesthesia delivery machines are now modular, portable units which can follow a patient's recovery throughout the hospital.

Other additions include flat-screen, computer monitors which have replaced old fashioned paper forms outside each room.

Another added bonus for patients are the pre-surgery "induction rooms'' where patients are prepared for imminent operations.