Nigeria has taken a major step in advanced healthcare as The Prostate Clinic (TPC), Lagos, successfully performed what experts are calling West Africa’s first robotic gynaecological surgery.
The groundbreaking procedure, carried out on Sunday, marked the clinic’s expansion of robotic surgery from male-focused treatments to women’s health interventions.
Consultant Robotic Surgeon and TPC Medical Director, Prof. Kingsley Ekwueme, said the move underscores the clinic’s commitment to innovation in Nigeria and the sub-region.
“Following our tradition of leading innovation, we introduced the first surgical robot in West Africa last year. Today, we are proud to extend that innovation to women’s surgeries,” he said.
The patient, a young woman with an ovarian tumour, underwent a successful robotic surgery that allowed for a rapid recovery. “With robotic surgery, we removed two large tumours, she will go home today and return to work tomorrow,” Ekwueme explained.
He noted that robotic procedures significantly reduce pain, blood loss, and prolonged hospital stays associated with open surgery, enabling patients to resume normal activities within 24 hours.
“This is transformative for treating fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian tumours, and selected ectopic pregnancies,” he added. The surgery was provided free under TPC’s corporate social responsibility program.
Prof. Ekwueme also revealed a partnership with the Imo State government to establish Nigeria’s first dedicated robotic surgery centre, envisioning the country as a hub for advanced medical care, training, and research.
Confirming the patient’s suitability for the procedure, Consultant Gynaecologist at LASUTH, Prof. Yusuf Oshodi, said the 30-year-old’s benign tumour was removed without compromising fertility. “She will be free from six months of pain, without damage to surrounding structures,” he said.
Prof. Oshodi highlighted the prevalence of conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, and ovarian tumours among Nigerian women, noting that delayed treatment can lead to severe complications.
UK-based Consultant Gynaecologist, Olaolu Aladade, praised robotic surgery for its superior outcomes compared to traditional open procedures. “Patients recover faster, return to work sooner, and enjoy better psychological and economic outcomes,” he said.
