The University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) has highlighted its success with Minimal Access Surgery (MAS) procedures across various medical fields, including Urology, Cardiology, and Radiology.

The hospital’s management emphasized the benefits and advancements of MAS during a grand rounds event held on Friday, August 30, 2024, with a theme focusing on the past, present, and future of MAS in UPTH.

At the event, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Professor Datonye Alasia informed newsmen about the notable achievements in MAS for patients of all ages, emphasizing its efficiency and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional open surgeries.

He encouraged the public to consider MAS options when surgery is needed, stating that it offers less pain, quicker recovery, and a faster return to daily activities.

The event aimed to foster the exchange of ideas, highlight departmental achievements, and raise public awareness about the specialized services offered at UPTH.

Professor Emeka Ray-Offor, Director of the UPTH MAS Program, called on the government to invest in regional medical centers to reduce medical tourism abroad and strengthen local healthcare services.

He stressed the importance of restricting public officials from seeking treatments abroad to promote confidence in Nigeria’s medical expertise.

Ray-Offor also advocated for policies that encourage investment in regional centers and noted that public and private collaboration could boost the nation’s healthcare system.

“We should really look inwards to solving our problems… if the amount of money given to civil servants to go for medical treatments abroad is brought home and you have dedicated centers regionally and well funded, it will help to address these challenges.”