Anambra News
Dame Irene Okwuosa Hospital performs 1st open heart surgery, milestone in Nigeria cardiac care
The Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital (DIOMH), located in Oraifite, Anambra State, has successfully performed its first open-heart surgery led entirely by its own medical team —with support from an all-Nigerian team operating within the country.
The Dame Irene Okwuosa Memorial Hospital (DIOMH) Surgical Team
The patient, a 42-year-old nurse and mother of two from Aba, Abia State, was diagnosed with a rare heart tumor (Left Atrial Myxoma). Thanks to a successful surgical excision, she has now been discharged in stable condition.
This achievement marks a major turning point for DIOMH as it transitions from international-led missions to year-round, locally-led cardiac care. The all-Nigerian 10-member team, led by Dr. Nwagboso and Dr. Arua of DIOMH and supported by Prof. Bode Falase (LASUTH), included cardiac surgeons, anesthetists, perfusionists, nurses, and a biomedical engineer.
“This marks a new era for healthcare in underserved parts of Nigeria,” said Dr. Ahamba Kelechi, Clinical Director at DIOMH.
“I’m proud to be part of this important step forward,” added Head Nurse, Faustina Njoku.
This success was made possible through the ongoing support of the VOOM Foundation and the Sir Emeka Okwuosa Foundation, whose vision continues to transform access to advanced cardiac care in Nigeria.
DIOMH reaffirms its commitment to being a center of cardiovascular excellence, expanding access to life-saving procedures for Nigerians—by Nigerians.
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