First Laparoscopic Surgery Successfully Performed at MTRH Shoe4Africa Children’s Hospital
This week, the Shoe4Africa Children’s Hospital, which is part of MTRH in Eldoret, successfully performed its first laparoscopic surgery.
Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has achieved a significant milestone in paediatric healthcare.
By Robert Assad
Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) has achieved a significant milestone in paediatric healthcare.
This week, the Shoe4Africa Children’s Hospital, which is part of MTRH in Eldoret, successfully performed its first laparoscopic surgery.
This achievement marks the beginning of a new era for minimally invasive paediatric procedures in the region.
A landmark surgical procedure was recently conducted on a 4-year-old boy diagnosed with an undescended testis, a condition that typically necessitates a large abdominal incision.
Instead, the surgical team effectively performed a first-stage laparoscopic orchidopexy using advanced techniques. They employed a single 5mm port and two 3mm instrument sites, allowing them to execute the entire procedure with minimal trauma.
Remarkably, the young patient was alert and stable shortly after the surgery and was ready for discharge within just a few hours.
This success highlights the hospital’s expanding capacity and commitment to world-class paediatric care. It also showcases the dedication of a skilled and collaborative medical team.
At the heart of this achievement are Dr. Philip Kirwa, MTRH CEO, and Dr. Peter Saula, Head of the Paediatric Surgery Department. Both leaders have been vocal advocates for the adoption of laparoscopic surgery in paediatric care.
Dr. Kirwa praised the collective effort, stating, “As we look ahead, we hope to build on this foundation to increase access to minimally invasive surgery for children in our region.”
Behind the scenes, multiple departments played crucial roles. The anaesthesia, nursing, biomedical, cleaning, and supply chain teams collaborated seamlessly.
Herbert Oloo, Nurse Manager of the operating theatre, led his team with precision, ensuring all preparations and execution steps ran smoothly.
This operation is more than just a first; it sets the stage for transformative healthcare delivery for children in Eldoret and the greater Western Kenya region.
With reduced surgical trauma, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery, laparoscopic surgery is the future — and MTRH is taking the lead.
The hospital plans to scale up this initiative and provide more children with access to minimally invasive surgery.
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