Kenyatta National Hospital launches minimally invasive esophageal surgery protocol in Nairobi

KENYA—Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has successfully performed Kenya’s first Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy (MIE), marking a major milestone in the country’s ability to deliver advanced cancer surgery.

The pioneering procedure was carried out on June 30, 2026, on a 43-year-old patient diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

Before surgery, a multidisciplinary team administered chemotherapy and radiotherapy to shrink the tumor.

After reviewing the patient’s response to treatment, doctors determined that curative surgery using a minimally invasive approach offered the best chance of success.

Unlike conventional open surgery, which requires large incisions in the chest and abdomen, MIE uses several small incisions, high-definition imaging, and specialized laparoscopic instruments.

During the seven-hour procedure, surgeons removed the diseased esophagus, reshaped the stomach into a narrow tube, and connected it to the remaining upper esophagus to create a new food passage.

Multidisciplinary team delivers complex procedure

Consultant Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeons Dr. Joseph Mutie and Dr. Obed Makori led the operation, supported by Dr. Praxidice, Dr. Muthoni, and Dr. Yakub. Dr. Billow headed the anesthesia team with assistance from Dr. P. Chelagat, while Mr. Kitema led the nursing team alongside Mr. Onyari and Mr. Collins.

Postoperative care is being supervised by Dr. L. Ooko, with continued nursing support from Ms. P. Anampiu, Ms. B. Githinji, and Ms. G. Theuri.

The minimally invasive technique offers several advantages over traditional surgery.

Patients generally experience less blood loss, reduced pain, fewer respiratory complications, smaller scars, and faster recovery.

In this case, surgeons reported minimal blood loss and no need for a blood transfusion.

The patient spent six days in the Critical Care Unit before being transferred to the general ward.

A chest X-ray performed on the third day after surgery showed no signs of infection or other chest complications.

The patient has also begun eating small portions of soft food, indicating that the reconstructed digestive tract is functioning well.

Hospital expands advanced surgical care

Lead surgeon Dr. Joseph Mutie described the operation as a landmark achievement for Kenya’s healthcare sector.

 He said the procedure reflects the international standard of care and enables Kenyan patients to receive world-class esophageal cancer treatment without traveling abroad.

Senior Director of Clinical Services Dr. Joel Lessan said the successful outcome highlighted the value of close collaboration among surgeons, oncologists, anesthesiologists, nurses, and critical care specialists.

Chief Executive Officer Dr. Richard Lesiyampe said the achievement demonstrates KNH’s continued investment in specialist training, innovation, and advanced medical technology.

The breakthrough follows another recent milestone at KNH, where surgeons successfully removed a 4-kilogram liver tumour during a complex right hepatectomy performed through an international surgical collaboration.

A few days earlier, the hospital supported the transition of its former Othaya annex into the independent Level 6 Mwai Kibaki Referral Hospital, reflecting continued investment in specialised healthcare services and referral capacity across Kenya.