Kericho County Referral Hospital has performed its first successful cardiothoracic surgery.
The four-hour operation led by cardiac and vascular surgeon Dr. Gilbert Langat involved accessing a collapsed lung for fluid drainage.
Cardiothoracic surgery involves surgery on the organs in the chest, such as heart, lungs and esophagus.
According to the hospital, the surgery is a delicate operation which requires top-notch surgical skills.
"In a progressive move guided by strategic planning and execution, Kericho County Referral Hospital today stood out from its peers by holding its first cardiothoracic surgery," a statement by Kericho county government read.
The county government said the surgery was a success as a result of a Sh16 million investment to purchase cardiothoracic kits, sets and equipment and key personnel sent for training.
The statement said the county under Governor Erick Muta's leadership is set to join the league of national referral hospitals by offering neurosurgery operations.
The county said the milestone is as a result of strategic investment in training of three neurosurgeons and equipping the referral facility with the necessary equipment.
"We wish the patient a quick recovery as he recovers at the general ward awaiting discharge," the county said.
Cardiothoracic surgery is performed with the help of highly advanced machines that are operated externally by a surgeon.
The machines can operate through very small incisions which shorten the recovery time of a patient.
