A groundbreaking operation has given a new lease of life to a cancer patient in Zimbabwe. One 40-year-old mother of three underwent a uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), a technique pioneered by Spanish Professor Diego Gonzales Rivas. This marked the first time this procedure was performed in Zimbabwe, with a team of cardiothoracic surgeons led by Professor Rivas.
The surgery, conducted at The Avenues Clinic, involved the removal of a cancerous lower lobe of the patient's lung. The innovative aspect of the procedure was that it was carried out through a single small incision, guided by a video monitor. This patient was the only one among the three surgeries to have lung cancer.
The patient, who preferred to remain anonymous, has been battling cancer since her initial diagnosis of breast cancer in 2008. She underwent surgeries to remove both breasts, along with reconstructive procedures and chemotherapy. In 2021, she experienced lumps in her armpit, leading to an axillary dissection at The Avenues Clinic. Regular CT scans revealed the presence of cancer in her lung, which was detected early, resulting in a positive prognosis.
Despite facing multiple instances of cancer and undergoing various treatments, the patient has maintained a remarkably positive attitude. She emphasized the importance of regular check-ups and tests, as her lung cancer would not have been detected without the CT scan. She expressed gratitude for the care and support she received at The Avenues Clinic.
This groundbreaking surgery took place as part of the International Uniportal VATS Masterclass Zimbabwe program, attended by doctors from across Africa. Uniportal VATS involves conducting surgery through a single small incision, guided by video assistance, which offers several advantages in minimally invasive procedures.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the medical field, providing hope and improved treatment options for cancer patients in Zimbabwe and beyond.
