New epilepsy treatment introduced in Kisumu neurosurgery camp

In Kisumu, western Kenya, patients suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy now have access to a specialized treatment known as vagus nerve stimulation, introduced during a neurosurgery camp at Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu. The procedure is part of a broader range of advanced neurosurgical services being offered by the Kisumu Neuroscience Initiative, which is helping patients receive necessary care closer to home, reducing the need for long-distance travel.

The camp, co-founded by neurosurgeon Dr. Bethwel Raore, is providing treatment for various neurological conditions, including brain, spine, and other related issues. Vagus nerve stimulation involves implanting a small, battery-powered device under the skin, connected to the vagus nerve with a lead. This device delivers electrical signals aimed at reducing seizure frequency and severity in patients whose epilepsy has not responded well to medication.

Dr. Simon Onsongo, the Medical Director of Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu, highlighted how the camp is enabling patients to receive specialized services without extensive travel. He also noted that the program is aiding local medical teams in gaining experience with complex procedures. The camp, which began in 2017, has already performed five vagus nerve stimulation surgeries, with 43 patients screened for the procedure.

Around 12 surgeries have been completed during the camp, with nine more planned based on patient evaluations. In addition to vagus nerve stimulation, the camp is conducting procedures for brain tumors, infections, and spinal conditions. The initiative, which has grown since its inception to include four neurosurgeons and two orthopaedic spine specialists, initially relied on specialists and equipment brought from outside the region.

Now, local nurses and scrub teams have been trained to support complex neurosurgical operations, enhancing the capacity of local hospitals. While the camp provides doctors' services free of charge, patients are still responsible for hospital charges and insurance requirements. Dr. Raore emphasized the long-term goal of ensuring routine access to neurosurgical services in Kisumu, moving away from the need for occasional camps.