Upper West: The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Upper West Regional Hospital has successfully repaired five out of eight confirmed fistula cases free of charge over the weekend. The remaining three cases were deemed inoperable. These cases were selected from twenty patients referred for urinary and faecal incontinence.

According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Gildas Mbamba Ngman-Wara, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Clinical Coordinator at the hospital, praised the efforts of the Regional Health Directorate Fistula Recruitment Team for their consistent mobilization of fistula patients over the past two years. He highlighted that the funds for the surgeries were provided by the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) through the Family Health Division of the Ghana Health Service. Dr. Ngman-Wara also expressed gratitude towards the hospital management for their logistical support in outreach programs.

To mark the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF), the department organized a virtual webinar to discuss the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of obstetric fistula. The event was followed by a screening of suspected fistula patients on May 23, globally recognized as IDEOF. Mr. Mahamuda Yakubu, Senior Perioperative Nurse in Charge of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Theatre, expressed satisfaction with the capacity-building opportunities provided by the fistula outreach.

Ms. Priscilla Bayong, Senior Midwifery Officer in charge of the Gynaecology Ward, noted the challenges of post-operative care for fistula patients but found it rewarding to witness the patients’ joy when their catheters are removed after 14 days. Dr. Gabriel Ganyaglo, Chairman of the National Fistula Task Force and visiting Fistula Surgeon, discussed the challenges of treating complex and inoperable fistulas. He announced plans for a workshop focused on these issues, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary care team typically available only in teaching hospital settings.