UGMC Pioneers Pinhole Weight Loss Surgery in Ghana

UGMC Achieves Landmark: Ghana‘s First Pinhole Weight Loss Surgery a Game Changer for Obesity Battle

Accra,Ghana – In a important advancement for medical treatment in Ghana,the University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC) has successfully conducted the nation’s inaugural Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve surgery,a pioneering “pinhole” weight loss procedure. This groundbreaking operation signals a crucial step forward in addressing the escalating challenge of obesity within the country.

The complex surgery,performed on Friday,July 25,2025,involved a dedicated medical team of 30 professionals. leading the operation was Dr. Kennedy Ondede, Head of the Surgery Department at the Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, alongside Dr. Dominic Darkwa, a General Surgeon consultant at UGMC, and Dr. Emmanuel Nachelleh, Head of UGMC’s Surgery Department.

As reported by graphiconline.com on July 27,2025,Dr. Ondede highlighted the minimally invasive nature of the Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve procedure. The surgery is performed thru a minuscule incision, measuring no more than one centimetre, earning it the moniker “pinhole” surgery. During the operation, approximately 80% of the patient’s stomach is removed. This reduction significantly curtails food intake, thereby facilitating significant and sustainable weight loss.”the beauty of this technique lies in its minimally invasive approach,” explained Dr. Ondede. “Utilizing a camera, we can visualize the patient’s internal anatomy and complete the entire procedure without the need for extensive abdominal incisions.” He further elaborated that beyond reducing stomach volume, the surgery encourages the body to more efficiently metabolize fat, contributing to a healthier body composition. “When dietary intake is managed appropriately, the body naturally begins to burn excess fat,” he added.

Dr.Ondede stressed the profound long-term health advantages associated with accomplished weight reduction through this surgery. These benefits include a demonstrably lower risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, joint ailments, and respiratory problems. “By achieving a healthier weight, patients significantly improve their chances of avoiding these debilitating conditions and can experience a renewed quality of life,” he stated.

The successful execution of this surgery comes at a critical juncture, as Ghana grapples with rising obesity rates. Dr.ondede estimates that between 17% and 25% of the ghanaian population is currently obese, a trend he attributes to prevalent issues of poor dietary habits and increasingly sedentary lifestyles. He underscored the urgent need for both lifestyle modifications and the availability of advanced medical interventions.

“For individuals struggling with obesity who have found conventional methods like diet and exercise ineffective, we can provide a clinical assessment to determine if surgery is the most suitable path forward,” Dr. Ondede advised.

Globally, the World Health Association (WHO) defines being overweight as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 25, and obese at a BMI above 30. The implications of high BMI are stark, with an estimated five million deaths from non-communicable diseases in 2019 alone being linked to this factor. Global obesity statistics have shown a dramatic increase, with adult obesity more than doubling and childhood obesity quadrupling between 1990 and 2022.

UGMC’s pioneering surgery represents a significant stride in ghana’s commitment to confronting the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and to enhancing access to cutting-edge medical treatments within the country.

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What factors determine the cost of SESG at UGMC?

What is Pinhole Weight Loss Surgery? (Suture Endoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy – SESG)

Suture Endoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (SESG), often referred to as “pinhole surgery” or “incisionless weight loss surgery,” represents a revolutionary advancement in bariatric procedures. Unlike customary gastric sleeve surgery requiring large incisions, SESG is performed entirely through the mouth using an endoscope. This minimally invasive technique involves placing full-thickness sutures inside the stomach to reduce its size, mimicking the effect of a traditional sleeve gastrectomy. This leads to reduced food intake and promotes weight loss. It’s a meaningful step forward in bariatric surgery Ghana has been awaiting.

UGMC’s Role in Bringing SESG to Ghana

The University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC) has become the first medical facility in Ghana to offer SESG, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s healthcare landscape. This initiative addresses the growing need for effective and accessible weight loss solutions in Ghana, particularly for individuals who may not be ideal candidates for, or wish to avoid, conventional bariatric surgery. The team at UGMC underwent rigorous training with leading international experts to ensure the highest standards of patient safety and surgical precision. This commitment to excellence positions UGMC as a regional leader in advanced obesity treatment Ghana.

How SESG Differs from Traditional Bariatric Surgery

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

Incision Size: Traditional surgery involves several large incisions; SESG requires no external incisions.

Recovery Time: SESG boasts a substantially faster recovery period – typically days compared to weeks or months for open surgery.

Hospital Stay: Patients undergoing SESG often require only a short hospital stay, sometimes even outpatient procedures are possible.

Scarring: The absence of incisions means no visible scarring.

Pain Levels: Post-operative pain is generally much lower with SESG.

Risk of Complications: While all surgeries carry risks, SESG generally has a lower risk profile than traditional bariatric procedures.

These factors make SESG an attractive option for individuals seeking minimally invasive weight loss surgery and a quicker return to normal activities.

Who is a Good Candidate for Pinhole Weight Loss Surgery?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for SESG. ideal candidates generally:

Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher.

Have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise.

Are committed to making long-term lifestyle changes.

Do not have significant underlying medical conditions that would increase surgical risk.

Have a stomach anatomy suitable for the procedure.

A thorough evaluation by the UGMC bariatric team, including a medical history review, physical examination, and psychological assessment, is crucial to determine candidacy. Bariatric assessment Ghana is a key first step.

The SESG Procedure at UGMC: What to Expect

The SESG procedure at UGMC typically follows these steps:

1. Pre-operative Evaluation: Complete assessment to ensure suitability.
2. Anesthesia: Patients receive general anesthesia.
3. Endoscopic Access: An endoscope is inserted through the mouth and guided to the stomach.
4. Suture Placement: The surgeon strategically places sutures within the stomach wall to create a smaller sleeve shape.
5. Post-operative Monitoring: Patients are closely monitored for any complications.
6. Dietary Progression: A gradual return to a normal diet is guided by a registered dietitian.

The entire procedure usually takes between 60-90 minutes. UGMC prioritizes patient comfort and safety throughout the entire process.

Benefits of Choosing UGMC for SESG

First in Ghana: UGMC is the pioneer of SESG in the country, offering cutting-edge technology and expertise.

Experienced Surgical Team: Highly trained surgeons specializing in minimally invasive bariatric surgery.

Comprehensive Care: A multidisciplinary team including surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, and nurses provides holistic support.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: UGMC boasts modern facilities and equipment for optimal patient care.

Affordable Options: UGMC strives to make SESG accessible to a wider range of patients.Weight loss surgery cost Ghana is a significant consideration, and UGMC offers competitive pricing.

Long-Term Success and Lifestyle Modifications

SESG is not a swift fix. Sustained weight loss and improved health require a lifelong commitment to healthy habits. This includes:

Dietary Changes: Adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.

Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity most days of the week.

Behavioral Therapy: Addressing emotional eating and developing coping mechanisms.

Follow-up Care: Regular check-ups with the UGMC bariatric team to monitor progress and address any concerns.

UGMC provides ongoing support and resources to help patients achieve and maintain their weight loss goals. Post-bariatric care ghana is a vital component of long-term success.

Understanding the Costs Associated with SESG in Ghana

The cost of SESG at UGMC varies depending on individual needs and insurance coverage. Factors influencing the price include: