KNH performs two pioneering nerve reconstruction surgeries in Kenya
The procedures involved Targeted Sensory Reinnervation (TSR), a technique that redirects sensory nerves to help amputees regain sensation through prosthetic limbs.
KENYA—Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) performed two specialised nerve reconstruction surgeries on October 29 and 30, 2026, involving a four-year-old boy and a 43-year-old man who lost limbs through traumatic injuries.
The procedures involved Targeted Sensory Reinnervation (TSR), a technique that redirects sensory nerves to help amputees regain sensation through prosthetic limbs.
The operations included the world’s youngest known TSR recipient and the third patient globally to undergo its transhumeral variant.
Advancing reconstructive surgery
TSR involves redirecting sensory nerves to areas where they can connect with new tissue, creating the potential for patients to experience sensations such as pressure, vibration, heat and cold through appropriately integrated prosthetic limbs.
The transhumeral variant applies the technique to patients with above-elbow amputations.
The procedure may also help manage complications associated with amputation, including painful neuromas and phantom limb sensations.
Neuromas are abnormal nerve growths that can cause persistent pain, while phantom limb sensations involve feelings of pain, tingling or movement in a missing limb.
The first operation involved Jeremy, a four-year-old boy from Kirinyaga County who lost his left hand in a chaff-cutter accident while playing with another child.
An unsuccessful attempt to reattach the hand led to amputation, after which doctors identified him as a suitable candidate for TSR.
The five-and-a-half-hour operation took place on October 29. Italian plastic and reconstructive surgeon Prof. Alexander Gardetto led the procedure, assisted by KNH consultant Dr. Christine Nyabuto and supported by a multidisciplinary surgical, nursing and anaesthesia team. Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, Head of Specialised Surgery, oversaw the operation.
The second procedure involved Charles Mogire, a 43-year-old painter from Ngong’, who lost his left arm at the shoulder and his dominant right arm above the elbow following a severe electrical accident in November 2025.
After emergency treatment, skin grafting and follow-up care at KNH, Mogire underwent a five-hour transhumeral TSR procedure on October 30.
The operation was shorter than the first procedure of its kind globally, which lasted slightly more than seven hours.
Prof. Gardetto performed the surgery with assistance from Dr. Nyabuto, Dr. Mercy Kamadi and Dr. Lenah Kerubo, under the supervision of Prof. Ferdinand Nang’ole.
Expanding access to specialised care
Both procedures were fully covered by the Social Health Authority (SHA), enabling the patients to access the specialised interventions without out-of-pocket expenditure.
Following surgery, they received postoperative care and clinical monitoring under Prof. Nang’ole’s supervision at KNH and the University of Nairobi.
Both patients have since been discharged and are recovering at home, with continued clinical follow-up and rehabilitation.
Dr. Wabwire described the procedures as a milestone in microsurgery, noting that sensory nerve redirection was creating new possibilities for people living with limb loss.
KNH Director of Clinical Services Dr. Joel Lessan highlighted the role of multidisciplinary teamwork, international collaboration and investment in medical innovation.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe said the procedures demonstrated the hospital’s capacity to deliver complex specialised treatments locally.
The initiative is in its second year at KNH and continues to benefit from Prof. Gardetto’s mentorship and knowledge transfer.
The collaboration supports the development of local surgical expertise in advanced nerve reconstruction, potentially reducing reliance on overseas referral for highly specialised interventions.
Jeremy’s mother, Mercy Muthoni, expressed gratitude to the hospital for the care extended to her son.
Mogire and his wife, Beatrice Moraa, also described the operation as a turning point for their family.
Mogire hopes that appropriate prosthetic support will help him regain sensation, improve his independence and eventually return to painting.
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