By Chioma Obinna

In a groundbreaking development for women’s healthcare in Nigeria and West Africa, the first-ever robotic-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy using the Microport Toumai MT-1000 surgical robot was successfully performed at Nisa Premier Hospital in Abuja. The procedure, conducted in collaboration with Robomed Global, marks a major milestone in the adoption of advanced robotic surgery for women in the region.

The patient, a young woman suffering from symptomatic uterine fibroids confirmed via ultrasound, underwent the surgery with minimal blood loss, small surgical scars, and remarkable precision. She was discharged within 48 hours, required no blood transfusion, and reported minimal postoperative pain.

The operation was led by Dr. Ahmed Abdullahi, a Cambridge fellowship-trained gynecologist and faculty member of the Robomed Academy, assisted by Dr. David Ejenobo, consultant gynecologist at Nisa Premier Hospital. Dr. Abdullahi expressed enthusiasm over the historic achievement, highlighting the robot’s precision and control in removing fibroids with minimal trauma and reduced recovery time.

“This surgery is a testament to the future of healthcare in West Africa,” said Dr. Ejenobo. “With advanced technologies like robotic surgery, we are moving closer to providing our patients with the highest standards of care right here at home. It’s a new era for women’s health.”

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery is increasingly used to treat fibroids, endometriosis, and both benign and cancerous gynecological tumors. Key benefits include reduced blood loss, smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and minimal scarring compared to traditional surgery.

Dr. Abdullahi emphasized the importance of training the next generation of robotic surgeons through the Robomed Academy, aiming to build local capacity and reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for advanced procedures.

“This milestone shows what is now possible for women seeking high-quality surgical care locally,” said Obi Ekwenna. “By pairing advanced technology with structured training, we are strengthening local capacity and improving access to care that previously required travel abroad.”

The successful surgery sets a new standard for minimally invasive care in Nigeria and West Africa, signaling a transformative era for women’s health with faster, safer, and more precise surgical solutions.