UGMC performs first ever off-pump heart surgery

The University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) has made history by performing the country's first-ever Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass surgeries. The innovative procedures, conducted on beating hearts, showcase the medical prowess and commitment to cutting-edge cardiovascular care at the UGMC.

Two patients, part of a group of six individuals undergoing intricate cardiac surgical interventions, have emerged from the procedure with successful outcomes.

< b>Patient Profiles as shared by the hospital

Retired teacher, 70

Symptoms: Central chest pain radiating to the left shoulder, easy fatigability, palpitations. Diagnosis: Severe triple vessel coronary disease affecting major arteries.

Risk Factors: Hypertension, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking, family history of ischemic heart disease. Procedure: Three-hour emergency surgery on a beating heart. Outcomes: Left internal mammary artery connected to the left anterior descending artery, reverse Saphenous graft to circumflex and right coronary arteries. Extubated 2 hours post-surgery, spent 24 hours in intensive care, discharged on the 5th day.

Businesswoman, 67:

Symptoms: Chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis.

Diagnosis: Severe two-vessel coronary artery disease.

Risk Factors: Obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol.

Procedure: Left internal mammary artery connected to the left anterior descending, reversed Saphenous graft to circumflex artery.

Outcomes: Extubated 1 hour post-surgery, discharged on the 5th day. Exceptional Surgical Team Behind the Milestone

Prof Enoch Akowuah

Dr Baffoe Gyan

Dr Gordon Offei-Larbi

Prof Andrew Owens

The anesthesia expertise was provided by Dr Ernest Ofosu Appiah.

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease: Risk Factors and Preventive Measures Modifiable Risk Factors

Smoking (cigarettes, "shisha," and other tobacco products)

Increased alcohol intake

Diabetes

Hypertension

Poor dietary habits

Obesity/Dyslipidemia Stress

Physical inactivity

Increased levels of high-sensitive C-reactive proteins

Homocysteinemia

Non-modifiable Risk Factors: Advanced age after 65 years

Family history

Male gender Preventive Measures Against Coronary Artery Disease: Regular screening and routine check-ups

Smoking and alcohol cessation Regular exercise (at least 20 minutes, 3 times a week)

Maintaining a healthy weight within the normal BMI range

Control of blood pressure and blood sugars for those diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes Adopting healthy dietary habits.

Ghana’s leading digital news platform, GhanaWeb, in conjunction with the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, is embarking on an aggressive campaign which is geared towards ensuring that parliament passes comprehensive legislation to guide organ harvesting, organ donation, and organ transplantation in the country.

NAY/EK