Doctors in Ogun perform telerobotic surgery in Abuja

In a groundbreaking medical procedure in West Africa, doctors based in Ogun State performed the first telerobotic surgery in the region on a patient in Abuja, Nigeria's capital. The advanced surgery, a right radical nephrectomy, was executed at the Redeemer’s Health Village in Mowe, Ogun State, via tele-robotic technology, also known as remote surgery.

Surgeons at the Redeemer’s Health Village remotely operated on the patient at the robotic-assisted hospital in Abuja, marking a significant breakthrough in Nigeria's healthcare landscape.

According to Dr. Adedamola Dada, the Chief Executive Officer of Redeemer’s Health Village, the successful telerobotic procedure signals a new era for the country's medical capabilities. "It’s a huge breakthrough, and then of course, it is the first time telesurgery is done in West Africa," he said. The robotic surgery system in Abuja was connected to the robotic control system at Redeemer’s Health Village through an internet connection, allowing surgeons in the United States to operate on patients here.

Prior to the telerobotic surgery, RHV carried out a robotic-assisted pyeloplasty surgery on a 28-year-old patient, successfully reconstructing the pelvis and removing obstructions to restore urine flow. Dr. Dada emphasized the importance of supporting the training of medical professionals in robotic surgery to sustain the country's growing adoption of the technology.

He urged the Federal Government to provide sponsorship and scholarships for Nigerian surgeons, nurses, biomedical engineers, and other specialists to acquire the necessary skills for performing and supporting robotic procedures in Nigeria.

Dr. Obi Davies-Ekwenna, the robotic surgeon who led the procedure, highlighted the potential of telesurgery to bridge geographical barriers and expand access to complex procedures across the country. He noted that the remote surgery demonstrated the game-changing nature of technology in delivering precision healthcare in Nigeria.

"We were able to operate on a patient in Abuja, 500 kilometers away," he said. "It means access to experts from within and outside the country. Telesurgery can be done from any part of the world with precision, with excellent results."