Surgeons at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) have carried out a groundbreaking facial reconstruction surgery, hailed as a global first, on a seven-year-old boy injured in a bandit attack two years ago.
The nine-hour operation that was performed on Thursday, September 25, brought together a multidisciplinary team of specialists from KNH and the University of Nairobi.
Doctors say the craniofacial procedure restored the boy’s appearance and also improved vital functions, marking a major milestone in global medicine.
KNH acting chief executive, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, praised the medical team for their courage and expertise.
“This achievement shows the skill of our surgeons and Kenya’s growing leadership in specialized healthcare. It is also a message of hope to patients across Africa and beyond,” he said.
Ian Baraka the patient, is recovering in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit under close observation.
He was injured on December 23, 2023 at the Isiolo–Meru border when armed bandits opened fire on villagers. He was struck by stray bullet in the face, leaving him with severe injuries to his eyes and jaw.
The successful operation was led by Prof. Symon Guthua, oral and maxillofacial surgeon; Dr. Margaret Mwasha, consultant prosthodontist; and Dr. Andrew Okiriamu, oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Special mention was also given to Dr. Branice Munyasha, a resident student who ran two marathons to raise funds for Ian’s surgery.
KNH promised to give regular updates on Ian’s progress while protecting the privacy of the young patient and his family.
