Makerere Lecturers Enhance Laparoscopic Surgery Skills at Kyabirwa Centre

Sixteen lecturers from Makerere University’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology have commenced specialized training in the fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery. The intensive program is being held at the Kyabirwa Surgical Centre, marking a significant step towards expanding the availability of safer, minimally invasive surgical techniques within Uganda.

The training commenced with virtual theory sessions in July, followed by hands-on practical experience this week. The core objective is to equip these lecturers with the essential foundational skills needed for performing laparoscopic procedures.

Dr. Joseph Okello Damoi, a lead surgeon at Kyabirwa Surgical Centre, emphasized the global recognition of laparoscopic surgery as a superior and safer approach where applicable. He highlighted that the training is crucial for preparing participants for independent surgical practice.

The program has also involved doctors from Gulu and Jinja Regional Referral Hospitals, extending its reach beyond Kampala. This collaboration is accredited by the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), ensuring participants receive an internationally recognized qualification upon successful completion.

Anna Kalumuna, executive director of Global Surgical Initiatives at Kyabirwa, noted that the centre’s SAGES accreditation allows for local training and certification, eliminating the need for Ugandan surgeons to incur significant costs for overseas training. The simulation laboratory provides a safe environment for trainees to practice and learn from mistakes before operating on patients.

Associate Professor Mariam Nakalembe, head of Makerere’s Obstetrics and Gynaecology department, stated that the partnership is designed to ensure these newly acquired skills are transferred to future medical students. She acknowledged that Uganda has historically lagged in adopting minimally invasive surgery due to high costs and limited training opportunities.

Dr. Damoi pointed out the low number of laparoscopic surgeons in Uganda, concentrated mainly in Kampala and a few private facilities, with limited availability in public hospitals. He believes this training will increase the number of skilled surgeons and create a multiplier effect through education. He urged the government to prioritize equipping regional and district hospitals with the necessary equipment for laparoscopic services.

Kalumuna further elaborated on the benefits of laparoscopic surgery, often called “keyhole” surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, faster recovery, shorter hospital stays, and less scarring. Kyabirwa Surgical Centre has a history of training surgeons from various institutions and is set to train another cohort in October. This partnership with Makerere University is the centre’s first formal university collaboration and is expected to lead to more training programs, including endoscopy.

Source: Nile Post