Fair, constructive, and always motivating.
Graham Orsbourn is a Professional Practice Fellow in the Department of Surgery and Critical Care at the University of Otago, Wellington, within the Division of Health Sciences. He plays a key role in academic instruction, particularly in medical technology programmes focused on cardiology. As the designated lecturer for MTEC703 Cardiovascular Science for Medical Technicians, Orsbourn delivers content on the physiology of the cardiovascular system and the changes that occur in abnormal physiological and pathological conditions. This paper, part of the Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Technology (PGDipMedTech) endorsed in Cardiology, builds upon foundational knowledge from the Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Technology (PGCertMedTech). It places emphasis on cardiac arrhythmia, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease, covering the primary diagnostic and management tools used in these areas. The structure consists of four main modules, each accompanied by specific assessments to evaluate student understanding.
Orsbourn also lectures MTEC704 Cardiovascular Technology, which advances students' expertise in the principles underlying the measurement of cardiovascular function, the interpretation of cardiovascular data, and the therapeutic applications of advanced cardiology technologies. Similarly targeted at postgraduate students in cardiology, this paper extends from MTEC702 and reinforces knowledge on cardiac arrhythmia, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease. His scholarly contributions include peer-reviewed publications in cardiology. Notable works are 'Temporary Pacing Using Tunnelled Active-Fixation Leads Allows Prolonged Reliable Pacing with a Low Rate of Complications' (Heart, Lung and Circulation, 2007), co-authored with Nigel Lever and Scott Harding, which examined the reliability and safety of temporary tunnelled pacing. Additional research includes studies on the effects of low-dose colchicine on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with stable coronary artery disease independent of aspirin and statin therapy, and a comparison showing temporary-permanent pacemakers associated with better clinical and safety outcomes than balloon-tipped temporary pacemakers. These publications reflect his involvement in advancing knowledge in cardiac pacing and cardiovascular interventions.
