Kenyatta National Hospital set to perform rare heart surgery on 11 patients

Kenyatta National Hospital is poised to conduct an unprecedented heart surgery on 11 patients, marking the first introduction of this procedure in a public hospital in Kenya. The surgery, known as coronary artery bypass graft surgery, is recommended when arteries are unable to deliver sufficient blood to the heart. According to experts, the operation involves enhancing blood flow to the heart by utilizing blood vessels sourced from other parts of the patient's body.

This method aims to circumvent complications arising from halting the heart during surgery. Cardiothoracic Surgeon Simon Nderitu explained that the primary objective of performing the heart surgery while it is still beating is to prevent issues related to stopping the heart. Cardiovascular Surgeon Niinami Hiroshi revealed that the number of grafts employed varies based on the patient's condition, with some patients receiving up to six grafts.

He also highlighted the role of the heart-lung machine in traditional procedures and the benefits of avoiding it to minimize risks. The planned surgeries have provided hope to patients battling serious heart conditions with limited access to specialized treatment. One patient's wife had undergone a valve replacement surgery, while another family member recovered but subsequently suffered a stroke.

Nderitu emphasized the significance of building local capacity to perform these procedures to aid patients who previously lacked access to such critical services.