Mulago Specialized National Referral Hospital is gearing up to launch a week-long surgical camp on Monday, with a mission to address over four thousand cases.
Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, the hospital’s Executive Director, highlighted during a press conference that the initiative, marking Uganda’s independence anniversary, aims to tackle intricate medical procedures in neurosurgery, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and gastro-intestinal complications for both adults and children.
In her words, “They will be handling not just routine surgeries like hernias but delving into highly specialized procedures at a highly subsidized level.”
The primary objectives of the camp go beyond the medical interventions. Dr. Byanyima stressed that the event serves to raise awareness about the hospital’s strides in specialized and super-specialized surgeries, previously sought abroad.
Additionally, it targets the reduction of the patient backlog awaiting surgeries.
Dr. Michael Edgar Muhumuza, leading the Neurosurgery Division, emphasized the significance of the camp’s multidisciplinary approach, streamlining procedures.
Notably, he highlighted advancements in neurosurgery, including laparoscopic removal of brain tumors through the nose without major incisions.
However, Dr. Muhumuza expressed concerns about the increasing burden on the Neurosurgery Division due to avoidable road traffic injuries, particularly from Boda Boda accidents. He noted, “They are either victims of road accidents, and it is threefold.”
Despite existing surgery reservations for the camp, Dr. Norbert Orwotho, a Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, urged the public to seek consultation and assessment in the sixteen clinical areas covered.
“This hospital has open slots for consultations, and more surgeries will be scheduled,” he emphasized.
The hospital encourages public participation, not only for medical services but also to witness the latest innovations in care. The surgical camp serves as a platform to showcase the advancements in healthcare and the array of services available at the national referral facility.