In a groundbreaking achievement, Lusaka’s Maina Soko Medical Centre, a prominent military hospital, has successfully performed its first-ever awake complex brain surgery, known as Craniotomy. This innovative procedure was carried out while the patient remained awake and fully aware throughout the surgery.
The patient, a 28-year-old man, had been diagnosed with a brain tumor that required precise removal to ensure his health and preserve essential brain functions. The surgery was a delicate operation, as the tumor was located in a part of the brain crucial for vital functions, including movement and speech.
According to Colonel Peddy Mabuku, the Commanding Officer of the hospital, the procedure involved removing a small piece of the patient’s skull to access the tumor. Despite the complexity of the operation, the patient remained awake and responsive throughout the surgery. He was required to perform simple tasks such as moving his hands and responding to questions, which allowed the surgeons to monitor his brain’s critical functions in real-time.
The surgery lasted for approximately three hours and 54 minutes and was performed by a team of experienced surgeons and medical staff. The real-time monitoring enabled the medical team to ensure that no damage was done to vital areas of the brain that control movement, speech, and other essential abilities.
Brigadier General Levy Muchemwa, the Commandant of Maina Soko Medical Centre, commended the medical team for their skill and dedication. He emphasized that the successful surgery was a major milestone for the hospital, showcasing its ability to provide advanced healthcare services in Zambia. Brig Gen Muchemwa also noted that the achievement reflects the hospital’s commitment to excellence in healthcare and its pivotal role in advancing medical technology in the region.
This historic procedure not only highlights the exceptional expertise of the medical professionals at Maina Soko Medical Centre but also underscores the hospital’s growing reputation as a center of medical innovation in Zambia.
