Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in Idi-Araba has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully performing the first thoracoscopy surgery on a 13-day-old baby, Dorcas Shola. This minimally invasive procedure was carried out to remove blockages in the baby’s food tubes, allowing for the free flow of food.

Thoracoscopy is a medical technique used to diagnose and treat issues in the lungs, esophagus, or thymus gland. It involves making small incisions in the chest to access and treat problems within the chest cavity. The Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, described the procedure as a thoracoscopic primary repair of oesophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula during a press conference.

The success of the surgery was attributed to the availability of state-of-the-art equipment provided by the Federal Government and the expertise of the medical team. Dr. Felix Alakaloko, the surgeon who performed the procedure, highlighted the challenges of operating on newborns, emphasizing the delicate nature of the surgery.

The mother of the baby, Adeyinka Shola, expressed her gratitude for the successful surgery, noting that it was a significant achievement for the hospital. The availability of advanced equipment and skilled medical professionals played a crucial role in the positive outcome of the procedure.

This groundbreaking surgery marks a significant advancement in pediatric healthcare at LUTH, showcasing the hospital’s commitment to providing cutting-edge medical care to its patients. The successful outcome of the procedure highlights the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in treating life-threatening conditions in newborns.