NAIROBI, Kenya — Doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) have successfully removed a massive 4-kilogram liver tumour in a complex seven-hour operation, marking a significant milestone in specialized surgical care in Kenya.
The procedure, known as a right hepatectomy, was performed during the Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgical Camp held at KNH from June 10 to 12, 2026. The surgery is among the most complex liver operations and requires advanced surgical expertise and multidisciplinary coordination.
The achievement resulted from a collaboration between Kenyatta National Hospital, the Europe-Africa Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, the University of Nairobi, Aga Khan University, and visiting specialists from the University of Science and Technology Hospital in Egypt.
The operation was led by HPB specialist Prof. Soriman alongside a team of Kenyan surgeons, including Dr K. Ondede, Director of Surgical Services at KNH, Dr Muia, Dr Kaisha, and Dr Nthambi.
They were supported by invited HPB surgeons, Dr Karan and Dr Misoi.
A specialized anaesthesia team comprising Dr Simiyu, Dr Kasuku, Dr Muchiri, Dr Omundi, Mr Kwame, and residents Dr Atieno and Dr Monda played a critical role in ensuring the patient’s safety throughout the lengthy procedure.
The theatre nursing team, led by B. Khandega and supported by C. Tuwei, M. Wambui, S. Njeru, D. Kemuma, P. Nyaga, J. Kinyanjui, and Moraa, coordinated patient care during the operation. Technical support was provided by C. Muthengi and W. Owelle.
Beyond the landmark tumour removal, the three-day surgical camp delivered 13 highly specialized HPB procedures. These included four liver resections, one Whipple’s procedure, two hepaticojejunostomies, and six laparoscopic cholecystectomies.
The camp was led by Dr Gibson Musila, Head of the Department of General Surgery at KNH, and was designed not only to provide advanced patient care but also to strengthen local capacity through mentorship and skills transfer.
“The camp also strengthened local expertise through mentorship and skills transfer, showcasing KNH’s growing capacity to provide world-class specialised care and hope for patients facing complex liver, pancreatic and biliary diseases,” KNH said in a statement.
The hospital noted that such collaborations are helping build a sustainable pool of local specialists capable of managing complex liver, pancreatic and biliary conditions that previously required referral abroad.
“This achievement reflects KNH’s growing capacity to deliver world-class specialised care closer to home, transforming lives and reaffirming its role as a national referral centre where even the most complex medical challenges are met with skill, innovation and hope,” the hospital added.
