Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital in Raa Atoll has begun Laparoscopic surgery.
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that grants surgeons access to the abdominal and pelvic regions without the need for extensive incisions in the skin. These surgeries utilise cameras and small instruments, leading to decreased pain and quicker recuperation. In line with this, the Ungoofaaru Hospital recently conducted two laparoscopic surgeries. The initial procedure involved a 22-year-old female patient whose gallbladder was successfully removed. Subsequently, a 36-year-old male patient underwent laparoscopic hernia repair surgery.
Laparoscopy is currently being provided by a team of doctors and nurses from the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH). The surgeries will be performed by the Head of the Department of General Surgery Unit at IGMH Dr. Abdulla Ubaid. Ungoofaaru Hospital is taking steps to ensure the uninterrupted availability of Laparoscopic services.
Along with Laparoscopy, the Ungoofaaru Hospital has recently commenced special heart disease treatment services. The hospital is also taking administrative steps to launch echocardiogram and MRI services. Additionally, it is in the process of acquiring the required resources to initiate trauma surgery services, while simultaneously working on administrative preparations for the commencement of laparoscopic surgery services. These developments aim to enhance medical offerings and improve healthcare access for the community.
With the major change to convert the Ungoofaaru Hospital to a tertiary level, the building will also be designed in an environmentally friendly manner. The four-storey building has 300W solar panels installed on the roof alone which will increase the reliance on environmentally friendly energy and reduce the cost of fuel. The government also aims to develop the Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital as a specialised hospital.
Developing health facilities in the atolls is one of the highest priorities of the administration. The initiative aims to reduce the reliance on the Greater Male’ Region and allow atoll residents to receive medical treatment and healthcare services near their residential islands.