editor
Doctors at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) are taking a major step forward in heart care, thanks to new training in advanced techniques that allow them to treat heart defects and clogged arteries without the need for traditional open-heart surgery.
The training, held in Dar es Salaam, was led by Professor Xiangbin Pan, the Director-General of Fuwai Hospital in Beijing, China. Prof. Pan explained that the procedure uses a small incision and advanced imaging technology, known as Echocardiography (ECHO), to monitor the heart during the surgery.
“This approach makes it much easier to treat heart patients,” Prof. Pan said. “It’s particularly important for people in rural areas who often have to travel long distances to access care in cities. With this technology, we can bring the treatment closer to them.”
The new method not only reduces the need for patients to stay in the hospital for extended periods but also lessens the financial and emotional burden of long hospital visits and expensive surgeries.
One of the key innovations introduced during the training is the use of mobile surgical units. These vehicles are equipped with everything needed for the procedure, including ECHO machines and other specialized tools. This allows doctors to travel to remote areas and perform surgeries on-site, making heart care more accessible to underserved communities.
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Prof. Pan shared his excitement about how the mobile units are transforming care: “We’ve been able to reach patients who might not otherwise get the treatment they need. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how this technology is changing lives.”
For JKCI, the adoption of these techniques is a major milestone. The institute has long been a leader in heart care in Tanzania, and this new capability strengthens its mission to provide cutting-edge treatment to all Tanzanians, regardless of where they live.
The program aligns with national efforts to improve healthcare access and equity, with JKCI leading the charge in bringing specialized care to the most vulnerable populations. As more doctors and medical staff are trained in these methods, the benefits are expected to extend far beyond Dar es Salaam, reaching patients across the country.
This achievement also highlights the power of international collaboration in advancing healthcare. By working together, local and global experts are making high-quality heart care more accessible, offering new hope to patients and their families.
With this technology now in place, JKCI is not only saving lives but also setting a new standard for cardiac care in the region, ensuring that more people have the chance to lead healthier, longer lives.
