Kenya’s leading referral facility, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), has made medical history with what it describes as Africa’s first tubeless tracheal reconstruction, a specialised procedure to repair the windpipe without a conventional breathing tube obstructing the surgical field.
The five-hour operation was performed on September 24 at KNH’s Prime Care Centre on 26-year-old Dennis Kaiser Omondi, who had had breathing difficulties for nearly 20 years.
The procedure was led by Dr Joseph Mutie, a consultant cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon, working alongside Dr Ruel Maina, an ear, nose and throat specialist, and Dr Caroline Abuya, a consultant anaesthesiologist and intensivist.
Mr Omondi was diagnosed with a benign adenoma, a non-cancerous growth in his windpipe in 2008.
Investigations revealed narrowing of the windpipe, which restricted airflow, as well as an abnormal opening between the windpipe and the skin of his neck, the hospital explained.
The conditions affected his breathing, voice and daily activities.
During the operation, the medical team used a tubeless technique that kept a conventional breathing tube out of the surgical field, giving the surgeon clearer visibility and better access to the affected area.
The approach also allowed the team to use a bronchoscope, which is a small camera inserted into the airway, to identify the diseased section and guide its removal while preserving healthy tissue.
The technique required a close coordination between the surgical and anaesthesia teams to maintain adequate oxygen levels and ensure patient safety.
KNH said Mr Omondi breathed naturally throughout the procedure.
The team removed the narrowed sections of the windpipe, closed the abnormal opening, known as a fistula, and reconnected the healthy ends of the trachea to restore an open passage for breathing.
According to the hospital, the technique can help minimise injury to the delicate lining of the windpipe, promote healing, improve surgical access and reduce operating time.
The surgical team was supported by theatre sterile assistants Griffin Khamisi and Monica Manore, alongside a nursing team led by Mary Nyakangi, with support from Branice Juma, Merline Akinyi, Annita Jemeli, Winnie Nyatiende and Ann Keeru.
Dr Mutie said the procedure marked an important step in treating complex airway conditions in Kenya.
“This technique, the first in Africa, gives surgeons a clearer view of the affected windpipe, helping them work more precisely when treating complex airway conditions,” he said.
Dr John Ngigi, Senior Director of the Prime Care Centre, said the achievement reflected the centre’s commitment to providing specialised, patient-centred care.
Dr Joel Lessan, Senior Director of Clinical Services, said the milestone demonstrated the importance of modern technology and teamwork in managing complex cases.
KNH Chief Executive Officer Richard Lesiyampe said the achievement demonstrated the ability of Kenyan medical professionals to provide advanced treatment locally, thus reducing the need to travel abroad in search of treatment.
Mr Omondi said he had noticed significant improvements in his condition following the operation and had resumed his daily activities.
“I have noticed an improvement in my voice, and I have resumed my daily activities, including running my retail shop in Kisumu. I can now climb a flight of stairs with greater ease, which is a significant improvement after years of breathing difficulties,” he said.
Mr Omondi will continue attending follow-up appointments at the Nairobi-based facility.
