The University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) announced on September 18, 2026, that a team of medical experts successfully removed a 5-cm 'Tournevis' object from the abdomen of a 5-month-old baby using endoscopy. The procedure, led by Dr. Gaspard Habimana, an expert in pediatric gastroenterology, was a significant milestone in the development of endoscopy in Rwanda. The baby's condition was treated without the need for surgery.

The endoscopy procedure involves using a tube-like instrument with a camera to visualize the inside of the body. This technique allows doctors to inspect the digestive tract for abnormalities, such as tumors, cancer, or other issues, and even remove foreign objects. CHUK has been equipped with advanced endoscopy technology, including the Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) machine, which combines endoscopy and ultrasound to detect diseases before they become severe.

According to CHUK, this successful procedure marks a significant step forward in the development of endoscopy in Rwanda. The hospital has made significant progress in providing advanced medical care to patients. The use of endoscopy has reduced the need for surgical interventions in some cases, providing patients with a less invasive treatment option.

This is not the first time CHUK has used endoscopy to remove a foreign object from a patient's abdomen. In 2022, doctors at the hospital used the same technique to remove a large spoon from a patient's stomach. The hospital's gastroenterology department has been making significant strides in providing quality care to patients with digestive issues.

The EUS machine, which CHUK acquired two years ago, has been instrumental in detecting and treating various medical conditions. The machine's advanced technology allows doctors to visualize the digestive tract and surrounding tissues in real-time, enabling them to make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans.

The successful removal of the 'Tournevis' object from the 5-month-old baby's abdomen demonstrates the expertise and capabilities of CHUK's medical team. The hospital's commitment to providing quality medical care has earned it a reputation as a leading healthcare institution in Rwanda.

The use of endoscopy in Rwanda is expected to continue growing, with CHUK at the forefront of providing advanced medical care to patients. The hospital's medical team will continue to work towards improving patient outcomes and providing innovative treatment options.

Key points

  • CHUK's medical team successfully removed a 5-cm 'Tournevis' object from a 5-month-old baby's abdomen using endoscopy.
  • The procedure was led by Dr. Gaspard Habimana, an expert in pediatric gastroenterology.
  • The use of endoscopy in Rwanda is expected to continue growing, with CHUK at the forefront of providing advanced medical care to patients.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.