LMUTH SAVES 8-YEAR-OLD IN DELICATE ROUNDWORM SURGERY

A dedicated multidisciplinary team at Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital successfully performed surgery on an 8-year-old female patient diagnosed with severe Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm/nematode infestation), during which more than 100 worms were removed.

The delicate procedure, which lasted approximately two hours, was led by Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Patricia Shinondo together with her surgical team. Critical Care Anaesthetist Fred Ntezi and his team provided anaesthetic support, while Sister Asad Banda served as the theatre nurse during the operation.

Ascaris lumbricoides is a parasitic roundworm infection commonly associated with poor sanitation, contaminated food or water, and inadequate hand hygiene. Children are particularly vulnerable when exposed to soil contaminated with human waste containing worm eggs.

Health experts advise that prevention measures include:

Regular handwashing with soap and clean water
Proper washing and thorough cooking of food
Drinking safe and clean water
Proper sanitation and safe disposal of human waste
Routine deworming for children as recommended by health professionals

The successful outcome highlights the hospital’s continued commitment to providing specialised pediatric surgical care and managing complex medical cases locally through skilled healthcare professionals and multidisciplinary teamwork.

Disclaimer: Due to the sensitive nature of the procedure, images from the surgery could not be shared.