THE Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute (MOI) has officially launched new spine surgery services using endoscope, becoming the first institution in east, central and southern Africa to offer such services.

Endoscopic spine surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses an endoscope—a thin tube with a camera that allows the surgeon to see the spine—to treat back pain. 

The introduction of the service is expected to improve efficiency of spine surgeries and reduce the hospital’s length of stay for patients.

Dr Mpoki Ulisubisya, Executive Director of MOI, shared this update yesterday during a special camp for specialist spine treatment using endoscope where 12 patients were scheduled to undergo surgeries.

MOI made this possible after receiving a state-of-the-art endoscope tower, valued at 500m/-   from Germany.

Dr Ulisubisya emphasised that the modern equipment positions MOI as a leader in spine surgery while also boosting the concept of medical tourism in the region.

Dr Lemeri Mchome, director of brain and spinal services at MOI, explained that the new service will help patients recover more quickly from surgery with fewer complications.

“Previously, we performed surgeries by making large incisions, leading to longer recovery times, severe pain and large scars,” Dr Mchome said. “Now, with the endoscope, patients will experience shorter hospital stays, less pain and smaller scars.”

For example, patients used to stay five or more days after surgery due to the size of the incision, but with the new technology, the challenges will be eliminated, Dr Mchome added.

Dr Osama Nazar Kashlan, a training instructor from Weill Cornell Medical University in the United States, commended MOI for its commitment to investing in modern equipment and professional development of its staff.

He promised to continue supporting MOI’s capacity building, ensuring that the institution keeps up with the latest technological advancements in the medical field.