UNTH RECORDS YET ANOTHER MEDICAL FEAT IN OPEN HEART SURGERY

The University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital UNTH, Ituku Ozalla in Enugu State has recorded yet another medical feat in Open Heart Surgery in the country.

Apart from the giant stride recorded last month in double Coronary Artery Bypass Graft, an Aortic Aneurysm and Tetralogy of Fallout known as Baby Syndrome Open Heart Surgery was successfully carried out in the hospital.

Aortic Aneurysm heart disease is the abnormal enlargement or bulging of the blood vessels or arteries caused by weakness in the arterial wall.

The Surgery which is the first of its kind has brought a new lease of life for patients who cannot afford medical trips abroad for the treatment of the ailment.

Eleven persons including adults and children benefitted from the surgery, highly subsidized by UNTH.

For one of the patients, Mrs Jane Anusiem from Imo State and Mrs Faith Egwu, the mother of a six year old master Emmanuel, who could not hide their joy, said behind every victory is a story.

The Chief Medical Director of UNTH, Ituku Ozalla, Enugu State, Doctor Christopher Amah while commenting on the unique nature of the session noted that Aneurysm could lead to sudden death.

The collaborators, VOOM Foundation, United States founded by a Nigerian, Doctor Vincent Ohaju who pledged his commitment and desire to improve the standard of healthcare in the country, appealed to government at all levels to support the Open Heart Program of UNTH.

The Cardiac Surgical Team when interviewed attributed the successful surgeries to hard work especially by the local team of the hospital.

Meanwhile, free pediatric Open Heart Surgery has commenced at the hospital for indigent patients.

ADAKU AGBARA