Historic surgery at Parirenyatwa

Itai Mazire

In a groundbreaking medical achievement, paediatric surgeons at Parirenyatwa Hospital have successfully performed a complex, life-saving operation on a young patient battling Wilms tumor in both kidneys.

This highly specialised procedure, a first of its kind at the institution, has not only freed the child from cancer but also preserved enough kidney function to avert the need for lifelong dialysis, offering a beacon of hope to families facing similar devastating diagnoses.

The intricate surgery was led by a dedicated team of specialists, including paediatric surgeons Dr. Muparadzi and Dr. Moyo.

The operation involved a delicate nephron-sparing procedure on one kidney, designed to retain healthy tissue, and a radical nephrectomy (complete removal) on the other.

This dual approach is critical for bilateral Wilms tumor, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer that typically affects only one kidney, occurring in just 5-10 percent of cases.

“This is a monumental step forward for paediatric oncology in Zimbabwe. Our team’s ability to perform a nephron-sparing operation while eradicating the cancer means this child has a chance at a full, healthy life without the burden of dialysis,” stated a medical expert at the institution.