Onandjokwe conducts first orthopaedic surgeries

Onandjokwe State Hospital marked a milestone achievement last week with the successful performance of its inaugural joint replacement surgeries following a two day orthopaedic workshop.

Dr Albertina Nande, a medical officer in the orthopaedic surgery department, told Namibian Sun that the Ondangwa-based workshop was hosted by the hospital’s orthopaedic surgery department in collaboration with the Namibian Surgical Society.

She said the workshop facilitated the gathering of orthopaedic specialists from both public and private healthcare sectors, fostering a platform for learning, mentorship, collaboration and enhanced service delivery.

The Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital’s orthopaedic surgery department currently consists of two orthopaedic specialists, supported by an additional seven medical officers.

On Friday and Saturday, the hospital successfully performed four joint replacement surgeries, including the first-ever total hip replacement and total knee replacement surgeries.

In addition to the four successful procedures, there are still more than 45 patients awaiting knee and hip replacements, Nande said.

While the department is equipped for surgical procedures, Nande stressed the importance of ensuring a reliable and consistent supply of implants for future surgeries.

Joining expertise

Last week’s workshop included academic lectures and discussions, featuring insights from orthopaedic specialists and physiotherapists.

“This being the first departmental workshop, we concentrated solely on hip and knee joint replacement surgery," Nande said.

Dr Akutu Munyika, vice president of the Namibian Surgical Society, highlighted the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals and institutions.

“The educational benefits, successful surgeries and teamwork between specialists and healthcare workers signify a remarkable achievement," he said.

"We consider this workshop a resounding success and a model for future initiatives in Namibia,” he said.

Meanwhile, former health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula encouraged healthcare workers to speak up on the challenges affecting healthcare delivery and to actively advocate for the resources necessary to provide quality patient care.

Speaking on behalf of the hospital's orthopaedic department, acting senior medical officer Dr Nduuvu Ndunge Amutenya announced that the orthopaedic workshop will become an annual event.

"Our vision is for this workshop to evolve into a yearly platform for education, innovation, collaboration and exceptional service delivery," she said.