New equipment to speed up surgical procedures

The Gauteng MEC for Health Qedani Mahlangu launched the utilisation of a High Intensity Frequency Ultrasound (Hifu) on 13 October at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.

Gauteng Health spokesperson Steve Mabona said the intervention would enhance the hospital’s capacity to conduct a minimum of 25 surgeries a week, including conventional surgical interventions.

Gauteng provincial Government announced that it was the first to procure this technological advanced equipment which is not available in private sector.

The Chris Hani Hospital was scheduled to treat the first patient in Africa for the condition of multi-fibroid using Hifu.

The multi-fibroid is a B9 mass that develops from the uterus mainly during the reproductive years. It is complicated by the abnormal bleeding, pain, and pressure effects to the surrounding organs.

“Hifu will eliminate long waiting periods and pain normally endured by patients, making this a one-day non-invasive intervention, meaning that a patient will come in for a few hours procedure without any cut or loss of blood, and be discharged on the same day,” explained Mabona.

He further explained that the intention was to roll out the machine to other academic hospitals. Dr George Mukhari Hospital has been identified as the next beneficiary.

“It is important that, this process is the first of its kind in Africa,” concluded Mabona.

Details: Gauteng Department of Health 011 355 3000.

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