Guyana celebrated a historic medical milestone as surgeons at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) successfully performed their first laparoscopic donor nephrectomy on January 29. The surgery involved a woman who donated her kidney to a 17-year-old male relative suffering from chronic kidney failure due to Type One diabetes. The transplant was deemed a resounding success, with the transplanted kidney functioning exceptionally well and the patient showing no further need for dialysis. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of the procedure in restoring renal health.
The successful surgery was attributed to the collaborative efforts of the transplant and vascular team, working alongside general surgery, anesthesia, and nursing teams. The multidisciplinary approach ensured a comprehensive and well-coordinated effort, contributing to the overall success of the procedure. Dr. Kishore Persaud, the lead surgeon, expressed enthusiasm about the positive outcomes and emphasized the benefits of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy, which include precision, minimal invasiveness, reduced post-operative pain, quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and lower risk of complications.
Both the donor and recipient are currently resting at the hospital and are expected to return to their daily lives soon. This groundbreaking procedure marks a significant milestone for GPHC and the healthcare landscape in Guyana, providing hope for patients suffering from chronic kidney failure and showcasing the advancements in modern medical techniques.