Israeli doctors have found a new use for the Apple iPad.

Staff at the Mayanei Hayeshua hospital in Bnei Brak have been given the tablet computers to help them care for patients.

They are using the technology to check patient records, look at X-ray scans and find out test results.

The iPads, customised for use in Hebrew, can also be used to access information from outside the hospital, so doctors can offer advice to their colleagues at any time of day.

Dr Yoram Liwer, the CEO of the hospital, said the impressive picture quality of the iPad was helping doctors to “revolutionise patient care”.

He said: “The iPad is recognsed today as a leading medical tool, bringing many benefits to patients and hospital staff.”

The head of the Mayanei Hayeshua Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Dr Nir Cohen, added: “[Using the iPad] can help to speed up surgical procedures, reducing the time spent under anaesthetic, to the benefit of patients.”