Lagos General Hospital Performs Life-Saving Liver Surgery

The Orile-Agege General Hospital in Lagos has successfully carried out a complex, life-saving surgery on a patient suffering from a severe liver injury, showcasing exceptional medical expertise and teamwork.

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, announced the achievement in a statement released on Thursday by Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, Director of Public Affairs at the ministry.

Abayomi praised the medical team for their innovative approach, highlighting their use of advanced surgical techniques, including surgical packing and omental mobilisation, to stabilize and repair the liver. 

“The patient, 33-year-old, Mr Wasiu Abatan, suffered a grade three traumatic liver injury following a road traffic accident. 

“He was diagnosed with a 10 cm longitudinal and 5 cm deep laceration on the right lobe of his liver, along with a contusion of the hepatic parenchyma. 

“The injury was classified under the American Association for Surgery of Trauma (AAST) as a severe case, typically associated with high mortality rates. 

“Despite the odds, the team at Orile-Agege General Hospital not only saved his life but ensured his full recovery,” Abayomi said. 

The commissioner highlighted the importance of recognising medical successes, noting that while healthcare challenges are often publicised, the efforts of dedicated professionals must also be celebrated. 

Abayomi reflected on the resilience of the state’s healthcare system, acknowledging the challenges of brain drain, high patient loads, and resource constraints.

He stressed that in spite of the hurdles, the ability of local hospitals to execute complex surgical procedures successfully is a testament to the state’s commitment to quality healthcare.

 Speaking, Abatan and his mother, expressed their profound gratitude to the hospital’s medical team and the state government for prioritising public healthcare development.

“I was in so much pain, and some hospitals turned me away. I thought I was going to die. But the doctors and nurses here fought for my life, and today, I am standing here. I will forever be grateful,” Abatan said.

NAN