Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) Successfully Performs Groundbreaking Surgery on 13-Day-Old Baby
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
In a landmark medical achievement, doctors at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) have carried out a Thoracoscopic Primary Repair of Oesophageal Atresia with Tracheoesophageal Fistula on a 13-day-old infant. This innovative procedure, conducted through minimal access surgery, marks a significant milestone in Nigerian public tertiary healthcare.
The Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, highlighted the significance of the surgery, emphasizing its rarity in public tertiary hospitals across Nigeria. Babies born with such conditions face difficulties in feeding due to a blocked oesophagus, leading to regurgitation and choking. The traditional method of surgery, involving open thoracotomy, results in substantial chest wounds and prolonged post-operative recovery. However, recent advancements, such as Thoracoscopic repair, offer minimal tissue injury, reduced metabolic response to trauma, and improved outcomes.
Prof. Adeyemo expressed gratitude to the medical team and supporting staff whose expertise and dedication made the surgery successful. He also acknowledged the collaboration with Dr. Igwe of EverCare Specialist Hospital, underscoring LUTH's commitment to partnering with medical experts for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Lead surgeon, Dr. Felix Alakaloko, elaborated on the challenges faced in treating infants with oesophageal atresia, emphasizing the delicate nature of operating on newborns. However, with increased funding and state-of-the-art equipment at LUTH, the surgical team could perform the procedure with minimal trauma to the patient.
Notably, the specialized surgery, which typically costs millions abroad, was highly subsidized by LUTH, reflecting the institution's commitment to providing affordable healthcare to all. Prof. Adeyemo extended appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for their support in increasing funding for tertiary health institutions, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all Nigerians.
The successful completion of this groundbreaking surgery underscores LUTH's dedication to excellence in healthcare delivery and its role as a leading institution in medical innovation within Nigeria.
