Here’s what you need to know:
- The Incident: A 33-year-old man suffered a grade three traumatic liver injury in a road accident.
- The Challenge: His liver had a 10cm laceration, a very dangerous injury with high mortality rates.
- The Miracle: Doctors at Orile-Agege General Hospital performed a complex surgery, saving his life and ensuring a full recovery!
Lagos Doctors Show Their Skills
The Orile-Agege General Hospital in Lagos has proven that Nigerian healthcare can achieve incredible things. A team of dedicated doctors successfully performed life-saving surgery on Mr. Wasiu Abatan, who suffered a severe liver injury after a road accident. Prof. Akin Abayomi, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, praised the team for their innovation and dedication.
What Happened? The Details of the Injury
Mr. Abatan’s liver was seriously damaged in the accident. He had a 10 cm long and 5 cm deep cut on the right side of his liver. This kind of injury is classified as severe and often leads to death. But the doctors at Orile-Agege General Hospital were determined to save him.
How They Did It: Surgical Innovation
The medical team used advanced surgical methods to fix Mr. Abatan’s liver. They used special surgical packing and moved the omentum (a layer of tissue in the abdomen) to help stabilize the liver. This innovative approach was key to stopping the bleeding and helping the liver heal.
Dr. Daniel Kehinde, a Consultant General Surgeon, explained the complexity of the surgery: “Liver injuries of this magnitude are difficult to repair due to the organ’s delicate structure.”
Why This Matters: A Win for Nigerian Healthcare
Prof. Abayomi emphasized the importance of recognizing medical successes like this. He noted that while healthcare challenges often get attention, the hard work and dedication of medical professionals should also be celebrated. This success shows the strength and resilience of the healthcare system in Lagos, even with problems like brain drain and limited resources.
Quick Thinking Saves the Day
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, praised the hospital’s emergency preparedness and strong leadership. She pointed out that the hospital’s proactive approach to training and equipping its team ensured they were ready to handle critical emergencies like Mr. Abatan’s case.
From Arrival to Surgery in 45 Minutes!
Dr. Sola Pitan, the Medical Director of Orile-Agege General Hospital, said the hospital’s emergency response system kicked into high gear as soon as they learned about Mr. Abatan’s condition. From the moment he arrived, it took only 45 minutes to get him into surgery! This quick response was crucial in saving his life.
Gratitude and Relief
Mr. Abatan and his mother expressed their deep gratitude to the medical team and the Lagos State government. “I was in so much pain, and some hospitals turned me away. I thought I was going to die. But the doctors and nurses here fought for my life, and today, I am standing here. I will forever be grateful,” Mr. Abatan said.
The Outcome: A Successful Recovery
After the surgery, Mr. Abatan was closely monitored in the High Dependency Unit for seven days. He received blood transfusions and careful fluid management. After another five days in the general ward, he was discharged just 12 days after the operation. His recovery is a testament to the skill and care of the medical team.
The successful surgery also led to a commendation letter being presented to the team by the State Commissioner for Health, who praised their exceptional dedication and collaborative effort!