The Anambra State Government, in collaboration with the Carter Centre, has successfully conducted free hydrocelectomy surgeries for 165 patients across the state.
Hydrocelectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a hydrocele, a fluid-filled sac in the scrotum. It is typically performed when the hydrocele causes pain, discomfort, becomes significantly enlarged, or affects daily activities.
The surgeries, which began on March 18, were carried out at three general hospitals in the state: Enugwu-Ukwu, Umueri, and Ekwulobia.
Dr. Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday that the initiative aims to support patients, particularly those in remote communities, by providing treatment for hydrocele.
Obidike noted that the medical team did not record any complications during the procedures. He commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Carter Centre for their commitment to improving healthcare access in Anambra State.
He described hydrocele as a condition characterized by painless swelling in the scrotum due to fluid accumulation around the testicle, which can affect a person’s quality of life and self-confidence.
“This initiative highlights the expertise of healthcare workers in the state and underscores the administration’s dedication to enhancing the health sector and addressing critical medical issues,” Obidike said. “It has also helped restore the confidence of those affected by hydrocele.”
Dr. Chinenye Obi, Chief Medical Officer at Umueri General Hospital, stated that the hospital is well-equipped for the surgeries and has not recorded any casualties since the program began.
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A beneficiary, Mr. Somadina Nzegwu from Umuoba-Anam in Anambra East Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to the state government and the Carter Centre for providing free surgery that restored his health.
“I spent over N380,000 on a similar procedure three years ago, but it reoccurred. I’m incredibly grateful to the government for coming to my aid, as I could not afford the surgery this time,” Nzegwu said.
“We thank Governor Soludo and the Carter Centre for offering these free surgeries and pray for their continued success,” he added.
