Kano Teaching Hospital performs 1st LASER treatments on urology patients
Story from Saleh INUWA, Kano
Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) has performed its first urology treatments using Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER) technology.
It was gathered that the achievement was made possible by Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) funding of N4.5 billion for equipment for AKTH and six other hospitals in the North-West region.
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According to reports, the feat was made possible after TETFund procured the equipment that brought together doctors from different hospitals who undergo intensive training on how to work effectively with the new technology-driven machines.
The lead surgeon, a urologist from Poland, Dr Przemyslaw Zugaj, said the new equipment could be used more effectively in treating complicated cases including kidney, bladder and prostrate among others.
He said unlike conventional practices that may require invasive procedures and longer hospital stays, LASER treatments allow patients to return home after two to three days, even in the presence of complications.
Professor Sani Aji from Bayero University, Kano, emphasized the benefits of LASER surgery, noting that patients no longer need extensive incisions or prolonged hospital stays.
Professor Samuel Osaghae from the University of Benin expressed gratitude for TETFund’s initiative, stating that the equipment installation will enhance urological services and positively impact healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Similarly, Dr Haruna Usman from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi highlighted the financial benefits and convenience for patients, as LASER surgery reduces the need for expensive foreign treatments and eliminates the need to travel abroad.
