Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital has performed its first-ever cardiothoracic surgery, marking a major milestone.
The procedure, an esophagectomy to treat esophageal cancer, was performed on Christine Awino, a 41-year-old mother of five and vegetable vendor.
Awino, who is currently 12 days post-surgery and recuperating well, is scheduled for discharge today.
She is the first patient in the entire region to undergo this specialised procedure within the Lake Region Economic Bloc (Lreb).
The successful operation signals a major step forward for the Lreb as it prepares to launch its new heart surgery unit.
This breakthrough follows the recent return of two specialised surgeons who completed five years of study leave.
Dr Juma Odoro and Dr Robert Sadia, cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons, officially reported for duty on October 1, enabling the hospital to conduct this critical service.
Speaking from her hospital bed, a smiling Awino expressed her gratitude. "I want to thank Dr Sadia and his team, including Dr Oduor, Dr Vincent and Dr Sipul and others who took time on my case. We have come from far," she said.
Awino's illness started with severe symptoms. She would experience intense pain when swallowing and would also vomit. She initially sought treatment at the Kisumu County Referral Hospital, but when medication failed to help after three days, she sought a second opinion at JOOTRH.
Tests there revealed she had a growth and was diagnosed with Stage II esophageal cancer. "I was not afraid," she recalled. "Once sickness settles in, one just needs to find a way of treating it."
Following the complex surgery, Awino spent five days in the Intensive Care Unit before being moved to a general ward, from where she will be discharged today.
According to the oncology department at JOOTRH, esophageal cancer is the second most common cancer treated at the facility.
Sadia said the procedure is important.
"Given that esophagectomy is the treatment that offers the best chance at controlling esophageal cancer and improves survival, this is a huge step for us," he said. "Hopefully, this would help give other patients with the similar condition confidence that we can take care of them."
The successful surgery and the return of the specialist team promises to transform specialised healthcare access, ensuring residents no longer have to travel far for life-saving cardiothoracic and vascular procedures.
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