(Commonwealth_ A groundbreaking medical achievement has been reached at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) with the completion of the country’s first-ever laparoscopic liver resection. This historic surgery, which took place on July 25, 2024, marks a significant advancement in medical procedures within the region.
The operation was carried out by a dedicated team of medical professionals, including Dr. Zhao Chang Yong, the head of the 19th China Medical Team, who collaborated with GPHC’s own Dr. Adhikar Ramjoo and Dr. Andrea Kissoon. The patient, a 49-year-old woman diagnosed with colorectal cancer liver metastasis, was identified as a suitable candidate for this procedure following a series of diagnostic assessments at GPHC.
The woman had first sought medical attention at GPHC in May 2024, where imaging studies revealed a solitary metastatic liver tumor. Her treatment plan included chemotherapy, which successfully reduced the size of the tumor, making her eligible for the laparoscopic surgery. This procedure was part of the China Medical Team Surgery Week held in July, an initiative that brought together local and Chinese medical experts to advance surgical care in the region.
Liver metastases, which occur in 15 to 25 percent of colorectal cancer patients, pose a severe challenge as they significantly decrease survival rates. Without surgical intervention, fewer than five percent of patients with liver metastases survive beyond five years. Laparoscopic liver resection, the surgery performed at GPHC, is a critical intervention that offers a potential cure by removing metastatic tumors from the liver. This minimally invasive technique is known for its benefits, including faster recovery times and fewer postoperative complications, compared to traditional open surgery.
Despite its effectiveness, laparoscopic liver resection remains underutilized in many parts of the world due to limited access to specialized surgical expertise and resources. The new capability demonstrated at GPHC represents a vital step forward in addressing this gap. By incorporating advanced surgical techniques, the hospital is not only expanding its own capabilities but also enhancing the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region.
The achievement at GPHC underscores the importance of continuing to develop and implement minimally invasive surgical options. Such procedures are crucial in managing complex cases like liver metastases and can significantly improve patient outcomes. The successful execution of the laparoscopic liver resection at GPHC is expected to set a precedent for future medical advancements and inspire similar initiatives in other healthcare facilities.
The collaboration between the local and international medical teams highlights the value of global partnerships in advancing medical care. The involvement of the China Medical Team, alongside GPHC’s skilled surgeons, facilitated the integration of cutting-edge techniques and expertise that might otherwise be unavailable in the region. This cooperation not only benefitted the patient but also contributed to the professional development of local medical staff.
The first laparoscopic liver resection performed at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) marks a landmark achievement for Guyana’s healthcare sector. This pioneering surgery introduces a new treatment option for patients with liver metastases, offering a crucial advancement in cancer care. The successful execution of this minimally invasive procedure demonstrates the potential for significant improvements in surgical techniques, promising faster recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery. By adopting such cutting-edge methods, GPHC is setting a precedent for enhanced surgical practices and better patient outcomes. As the hospital continues to build on this historic success, it is well-positioned to further advance medical practice and elevate patient care standards across the region.
