PRESS RELEASE

Gbarnga, Bong County – The JFK Medical Center, in collaboration with Phebe Hospital has successfully conducted a pioneering urological outreach at Phebe Hospital, introducing and reinforcing the use of endoscopic surgery in Liberia.

The outreach, which took place from February 10 to 14, 2025, was led by a team of highly skilled urologists, including Dr. Ayun Cassell, Dr. Lavela B. Kortimai, Dr. Solomane Konneh, and Dr. Zeeshan Aslam from the UK. Their expertise enabled local medical staff to gain hands-on training in advanced endoscopic procedures, enhancing the country’s capacity for minimally invasive urological surgeries.

As part of the outreach, patients were pre-screened through the Outpatient Department (OPD) at Phebe Hospital, ensuring the selection of appropriate surgical candidates. A total of 12 patients were enlisted, with the team successfully performing six Transurethral Resections of the Prostate (TURP), five cystoscopies with Direct Vision Internal Urethrotomy (DVIU), and a pediatric cystoscopy for suspected Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV).

The initiative focused not only on delivering quality patient care but also on strengthening local medical expertise. The medical team at Phebe Hospital was actively involved in all procedures, receiving direct training on the use of endoscopic equipment and postoperative case management. In addition, a structured postoperative, discharge, and follow-up protocol was established to ensure optimal patient recovery.

Feedback from patients was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing satisfaction due to reduced postoperative pain and early discharge. Local medical staff acknowledged the safety and efficacy of endoscopic surgery, emphasizing its potential to improve urological healthcare in Liberia.

This outreach marks a significant step in Liberia’s journey towards modernizing surgical interventions and enhancing medical education. The JFK Medical Center, in partnership with Phebe Hospital and the Urologists from the United Kingdom, remains committed to advancing medical care in Liberia. Plans are underway to strengthen future collaborations, ensuring that more healthcare professionals gain expertise in cutting-edge urological procedures.

For further information, please contact:
JFK Medical Center

Written by: Edwin G. Vonhm