DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has taken yet another significant step in advancing healthcare services with the introduction of brain surgery at the Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute (MOI).
According to MOI Director, Amb Dr Mpoki Ulisubisya, the facility is set to begin offering these first-ever advanced services in the country this week, incorporating state-of-the-art robotic technology known as brain neuronavigation.
This marks a major leap forward in enhancing the efficiency and precision of treatments for patients with neurological conditions.
Dr Mpoki disclosed this on Monday while opening the 11th International Conference of Neurosurgeons and Specialist Nurses in Dar es Salaam.
He explained that the introduction of this technology follows the receipt of a special medical device, the Brain Lab Neuro-navigation
system, donated by Weill Cornell University in New York, USA.
This system aids surgeons by providing detailed guidance to identify problem areas in the brain during surgery, thus improving precision and patient outcomes.
“This technology will mark a new chapter in the treatment of brain, spine and nerve diseases at MOI. Our dream of making MOI a leading centre for neurosurgery is now becoming a reality. The collaboration with Weill Cornell has been ongoing for over 16 years, during which they have continually assisted in building the capacity of our specialists,” said Dr Mpoki.
Currently, MOI treats 95 per cent of brain, spine and nerve disorders within Tanzania.
Dr Mpoki noted that the new service would significantly reduce the number of patients referred abroad for complex neurological treatments, addressing the remaining 5 per cent who are currently unable to receive full treatment at the institute.
“We deeply appreciate the support of Weill Cornell University, especially Prof Roger Hartl, for their dedication to advancing healthcare in Tanzania. On behalf of the institute, the Ministry of Health and the government, I extend our heartfelt gratitude for their continued collaboration and for enabling us to provide top-tier services to our citizens,” Dr Mpoki said.
In recognition of the university’s significant contribution, renowned brain surgeon Prof Hartl from Weill Cornell expressed his sincere gratitude for the award bestowed upon him by MOI.
He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the collaboration with the institute, focusing on enhancing the skills and expertise of Tanzanian doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
“MOI’s commitment to developing neurosurgical expertise and offering advanced treatment to patients is commendable. We will continue supporting this initiative, providing the necessary resources and training to ensure that Tanzanians have access to world-class healthcare,” Prof Hartl affirmed.
Dr Laurent Lemeri Mchome, the Director of Neurosurgery Services at MOI, further elaborated on the benefits of the partnership between MOI and Weill Cornell.
He highlighted that Tanzanian doctors have had the opportunity to pursue specialised neurosurgery training in the United States, an invaluable experience that has equipped them with the expertise to perform cuttingedge surgeries.
The conference’s coordinator, Dr Hamisi Shabani, also highlighted the ongoing collaboration between MOI and Weill Cornell, particularly in organising the annual Global Neurosurgery Course.
He noted that the course provides comprehensive training to doctors and nurses, focusing on the latest techniques and innovations in brain and nerve surgery.
