Surgeons at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) successfully removed a massive four-kilogramme liver tumour during a complex seven-hour right hepatectomy, a first of its kind in the country.
The hospital made the announcement on Wednesday, saying the life-changing procedure was the standout achievement of the Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgical Camp held from June 10 to 12.
The milestone was made possible through a partnership between KNH, the Europe-Africa Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, the University of Nairobi, Aga Khan University, and visiting surgeons from the University of Science and Technology Hospital, Egypt.
Leading the surgery were HPB specialist Prof Soriman, working alongside KNH/UoN surgeons Dr K. Ondede – Director of Surgical Services – Dr Muia, Dr Kaisha and Dr Nthambi, as well as other invited local HPB surgeons Dr Karan and Dr Misoi.
The anaesthesia team – Dr Simiyu, Dr Kasuku, Dr Muchiri, Dr Omundi, Mr Kwame and residents Dr Atieno and Dr Monda – provided expert support, while the theatre nursing team led by B. Khandega, C. Tuwei, M. Wambui, S. Njeru, D. Kemuma, P. Nyaga, J. Kinyanjui and Moraa ensured seamless care. Technical support came from C. Muthengi and W. Owelle.
The three-day camp delivered 13 highly specialised HPB procedures, including four liver resections, one Whipple’s procedure, two hepaticojejunostomies, and six laparoscopic cholecystectomies.
Led by Dr Gibson Musila, Head of the Department of General Surgery at KNH, the camp went beyond patient care – serving as a platform for mentorship and skills transfer, strengthening local expertise in complex liver, pancreatic and biliary surgeries.
“This achievement reflects KNH’s growing capacity to deliver world-class specialised care closer to home, transforming lives and reaffirming its role as a national referral centre where even the most complex medical challenges are met with skill, innovation and hope,” the hospital said in a statement.
