Nigeria marked a major milestone in advanced healthcare as The Prostate Clinic (TPC) Lagos performed what experts have described as West Africa’s first robotic gynaecological surgery. The groundbreaking procedure, carried out on Sunday, expands the clinic’s robotic surgery capabilities from male-focused treatments to women’s health interventions.
Consultant Robotic Surgeon and TPC Medical Director, Prof. Kingsley Ekwueme, said the development reflects a commitment to medical innovation in Nigeria and the sub-region. “Following our tradition of leading innovation, we introduced the first surgical robot in West Africa last year. Today, we are proud to extend that innovation to women’s surgeries,” he said.
The patient, a young woman diagnosed with an ovarian tumour, underwent successful robotic surgery and is expected to make a rapid recovery. “With robotic surgery, we removed two large tumours. She will go home today and return to work tomorrow,” Ekwueme explained.
He highlighted that robotic procedures significantly reduce pain, blood loss, and prolonged hospital stays commonly associated with open surgery, allowing patients to resume normal activities within 24 hours. “Within six hours, once vital signs are stable, the patient can eat and go home. Recovery is fast, blood loss is minimal, and vital functions are preserved,” he said.
The procedure is transformative for conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian tumours, and selected ectopic pregnancies. Ekwueme also revealed that the surgery was provided free under TPC’s corporate social responsibility program, noting that untreated illness can cause greater economic losses than the cost of advanced care.
The clinic has partnered with the Imo State government to establish Nigeria’s first robotic surgery centre. “This revolution has just started. Nigeria can become a hub for advanced medical care, training, and research,” Ekwueme said.
Consultant Gynaecologist at LASUTH, Prof. Yusuf Oshodi, confirmed that the 30-year-old patient was carefully assessed and found suitable for robotic-assisted surgery. “The tumour is benign, and robotic precision allows removal of affected tissue without compromising fertility. She will be free from six months of pain without damage to surrounding structures,” he noted.
Oshodi added that many Nigerian women silently suffer from fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian tumours, and abnormal menstrual bleeding. He warned that delayed treatment can lead to complications such as anaemia and impaired heart function.
UK-based Consultant Gynaecologist, Mr. Olaolu Aladade, highlighted that robotic surgery offers superior outcomes compared with traditional open procedures. “With open surgery, complications and recovery time are higher. With robotic surgery, patients recover faster, return to work sooner, and enjoy better psychological and economic outcomes,” he said.