Nigeria has made a groundbreaking advancement in cancer care as top urologist and robotic surgeon, Prof Kingsley Ekwueme, successfully performed a robotic prostate cancer surgery in Lagos.

Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, Ekwueme, a UK-trained consultant urological and robotic surgeon, said his vision was to establish a specialised centre in Nigeria capable of delivering world-class prostate cancer treatment.

“The surgery was performed using the da Vinci robotic system, which enhances precision and accelerates recovery.

“Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions, robotic surgery involves smaller cuts, leading to minimal blood loss, reduced scarring, and shorter hospital stays,” he explained.

He said that the da Vinci robot provides three-dimensional, high-definition imaging, allowing surgeons to visualise the prostate with exceptional clarity.

Ekwueme added, “The system’s robotic arms offer seven degrees of movement, mimicking the flexibility of a human arm and enabling delicate procedures. This level of precision helps preserve vital nerves, making it easier for patients to regain urinary control and erectile function post-surgery.

He noted that, until now, robotic surgery was only available in South Africa, forcing Nigerians to travel abroad for treatment.

“I don’t want robotic surgery to be something only the wealthy can afford. Why should someone have to fly to India or the UK for a procedure that can now be done right here in Lagos? Our people have suffered enough. This is about bringing world-class healthcare home, where it belongs,” he said.

Ekwueme’s clinic also treats a range of urological conditions in both men and women, including kidney cancer, bladder cancer, kidney stones, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. His goal is to revolutionize surgery in Nigeria.

He said, “My mission is to ensure that no one in this country dies needlessly due to a lack of access to quality care. We are committed to making these procedures as cost-effective as possible and are open to partnerships with the government to expand our reach.”

To ensure uninterrupted operations, the clinic is equipped with a comprehensive solar power system, preventing power disruptions during critical procedures.

“We understand the importance of reliable power. Our 24-hour solar system ensures that we can consistently deliver high-quality care. We are investing in the future of Nigerian healthcare and empowering our doctors with the skills needed to provide world-class care,” Ekwueme said.

Beyond performing robotic surgeries, the specialist is dedicated to training Nigerian doctors in this advanced technique. His team has been working with local surgeons and plans to collaborate with the government to expand the program.

He also warned Nigerian men to avoid unverified herbal treatments and dietary fads, emphasising that such remedies do not cure prostate cancer and may exacerbate the condition by encouraging cancer cell multiplication and fatalities.

“The patient I operated on today will be back home tomorrow, and unless he tells you, you wouldn’t even know he had surgery. This is the future of surgery, and today, we’ve made history in Nigeria.

“Having performed over 200 keyhole surgeries, the surgeon emphasised that no patient has required a blood transfusion, further proving the safety and efficiency of the procedure.”


https://punchng.com/lagos-surgeon-performs-robotic-prostate-cancer-surgery/