KNH Conducts World’s First Transhumeral TSR Surgery

NAIROBI – The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) successfully performed the world’s first Transhumeral Targeted Sensory Reinnervation (TSR) surgery on Monday.

Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) is a surgical procedure that redirects residual nerves from an amputated limb to alternative, non-functional muscle groups that no longer biomechanically active due to the missing limb.

During the procedure, the selected target muscles are first denervated to allow for successful reinnervation by the remaining nerves that once controlled the original limb.

The procedure is a landmark moment for global medicine and a testament to African surgical innovation.

The historic 7-hour procedure restored sensation to the missing left hand of 22-year-old Moses Mwendwa.

The operation was a major breakthrough in neuroprosthetic surgery and rehabilitation.

Moses had tragically lost his arm in January due to compartment syndrome following a fall.

He had given up hope of ever feeling with his left hand again.

That changed when he became a patient at KNH TSR Camp, Africa’s first initiative dedicated to advancing nerve reinnervation surgeries.

The procedure was led by renowned surgeons Prof. Stanley Nang’ole and Dr. Benjamin Wabwire.

It involved rerouting remaining functional nerves in Moses’ upper arm to a new location in his residual limb.

The re-engineered “sensory map” allows the brain to perceive touch in the phantom limb, significantly improving both sensation and potential control of advanced prosthetics.

KNH management announce the successful operation of the world’s first Transhumeral TSR Surgery in Nairobi on Monday. Photo/ KNH

Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) is a surgical procedure that redirects residual nerves from an amputated limb to alternative, non-functional muscle groups that no longer biomechanically active due to the missing limb.

During the procedure, the selected target muscles are first denervated to allow for successful reinnervation by the remaining nerves that once controlled the original limb.

The reinnervated muscles then act as biological amplifiers, translating motor commands from the amputated nerves into signals that can be used to control prosthetic devices.

“Feeling my hand again is magic,” said a visibly emotional Moses after the operation.

His success story brings hope to amputees worldwide. It also shines a spotlight on the growing capabilities of African medical institutions.

KNH said the groundbreaking achievement demonstrates the commitment of the hospital to pushing the boundaries of medicine.

The facility stated that this groundbreaking achievement reflects the hospital’s dedication to advancing the frontiers of medical science.

The historical milestone reaffirms Kenya’s emerging role in cutting-edge surgical practices.

The milestone underscores the potential for life-changing surgeries to be developed and performed on the continent, with far-reaching impact for patients and practitioners alike.

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is Kenya’s oldest and largest referral and teaching hospital, located in Nairobi.

Established in 1901, KNH serves as a key pillar in the country’s healthcare system and is affiliated with the University of Nairobi for medical training and research.

It boasts over a century of medical service. The hospital is a center of excellence in specialized care, medical education, and research, serving patients from across Kenya and the East African region.

KNH boasts a wide range of specialized services, including oncology, renal care, cardiology, and reconstructive surgery. It has been at the forefront of several medical breakthroughs in Kenya and has played a critical role in advancing public health on the continent.

The hospital is also known for its leadership in complex surgeries and multidisciplinary treatment approaches.