KNH performs world's first facial reconstruction surgery on 7-year-old bandit attack survivor

The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has successfully conducted a nine-hour reconstructive surgery to restore the face of a seven-year-old boy disfigured during a bandit attack in 2023.

In a statement by KNH Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, the highly complex craniofacial procedure, carried out on Thursday, September 25, by a multidisciplinary team of KNH and University of Nairobi (UoN) specialists, was hailed as a global surgical milestone. 

According to KNH, the operation, which involved intricate facial reconstruction, is the first procedure of its kind worldwide and positions Kenya at the forefront of advanced medical innovation.

The hospital's CEO commended the surgical team for their expertise and commitment.

“This milestone demonstrates not only our surgeons’ skill and determination, but also Kenya’s rising leadership in specialized healthcare. It is a message of hope to patients across Africa and beyond,” he stated. 

The patient, Ian Baraka, is currently in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) under close medical supervision. He sustained severe facial injuries on December 23, 2023, when armed bandits attacked villagers at the Isiolo-Meru border and a stray bullet struck him in the face.

Since then, he has undergone extensive treatment and rehabilitation for damage to his eyes and lower jaw. 

The groundbreaking operation was led by Prof. Symon Guthua, Lead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, alongside Dr. Margaret Mwasha, Lead Consultant Prosthodontist, and Dr. Andrew Okiriamu, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.

The hospital also commended Dr. Branice Munyasha, a resident student in Maxillofacial Surgery, who ran two marathons to raise funds for Ian’s procedure, a gesture that highlighted the medical team's dedication. 

KNH confirmed that it would provide regular updates on Ian’s recovery while respecting the privacy and well-being of his family.