UCTH Enhances Patient Care with Advanced Endoscopy Techniques

The University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) is elevating its clinical services and patient care by introducing advanced endoscopic procedures.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in healthcare delivery, as the hospital becomes the second government-owned facility in Nigeria to implement these cutting-edge techniques.

Prof. Ikpeme Ikpeme, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of UCTH, made this announcement to journalists in Calabar, highlighting the hospital's collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital in the United States to enhance endoscopic practices in Cross River State and across Nigeria. The partnership also receives support from Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, reinforcing a network of excellence in medical care.

"We (UCTH) have had a basic endoscopy program ongoing for years, but we thought it was time to upscale it and introduce advanced endoscopy. So, we entered into a collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital to advance endoscopic practice in our locality. We are the second federal institution doing this, with the only other federal institution being Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital," Prof. Ikpeme explained.

This collaboration will enable the introduction of advanced procedures such as Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS). These techniques will significantly improve the diagnosis of hepatopancreatic biliary diseases, increasing the chances for effective treatment. Previously, a biopsy for pancreatic cancer required a large incision; however, with the new equipment, a camera mounted on a fiber optic cable allows doctors to perform biopsies with minimal invasiveness.

To ensure the successful implementation of these advanced procedures, UCTH has invested in training its staff in the United States and India, as well as providing hands-on training locally. Prof. Ikpeme noted, "We are building capacity and expertise because we want this initiative to be sustainable long after the three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ends. We have successfully treated eight patients free of charge who would have otherwise needed to travel abroad for treatment, including a patient from Zambia."

The CMD emphasized that this initiative brings advanced medical treatment closer to patients, making it more accessible and affordable. "This means improved diagnostics, enhanced treatment options, and better outcomes for Nigerians and Africans generally. It is a win-win for everyone involved," he stated.

With these advancements, UCTH is not only improving patient care but also contributing to the development of medical tourism, positioning itself as a center of excellence in healthcare within Nigeria and beyond.