The First Successful Pediatric Cardiac Surgical Mission at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital Dodoma

On Monday morning, we organized, planned and learned from our guest teammates from the United States before conducting our first two catheterizations on 22-month-old Claud and 18-month-old Elijah, who both had patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). We also completed three catheterizations in children with pulmonary stenosis.

Tuesday saw procedures on 8-year-old Siham, 8-year-old Shuwana, and 6-year-old Jevison, alongside historic cardiac bypass cases on 4-year-old Daniel and 6-year-old Tariq, who both had atrial septal defects (ASD). The surgical team included local nurses, anesthesiologists and surgeons from both local and US teams.

On Wednesday, a pressurized saline bag exploded, damaging equipment. However, through prayer, the equipment miraculously resumed functionality the next day.

On Thursday, unexpected complications arose, necessitating urgent procedures. Despite challenges, the team persevered, prioritizing patient care.

Friday brought concerns over abnormal heart rhythms and pneumothorax, but the medical team successfully managed these issues. In the evening, a dinner hosted by Dr. Alfonce Chandika provided much-needed rejuvenation and fostered positive relationships among the teams.

The week concluded with a screening of additional patients and bidding farewell to operated ones. Despite challenges, the team's dedication and accomplishments garnered recognition, instilling hope for continued progress in cardiac care.

Early Saturday morning, the team bid farewell to the hospital and embarked on a journey back to Dar es Salaam, concluding their mission with a flight back to the United States.