Surgical Procedures at FAME
Cecilia
Cecilia* is a 38-year-old woman at FAME’s Outpatient Clinic (OPD), here for her post-surgery consultation. This post-operative check-up will assess her progress after the surgical procedure, address any concerns or complications that may have arisen and ensure that she is on track to a successful recovery. Nine days ago, Cecilia underwent a laparotomy, a surgical procedure to remove a large mass from her uterus.
“My lower abdomen had been hurting for over three months before my sister brought me to FAME. I was in pain all the time and my back hurt so much that I could not do my house chores anymore. I also had a fever and was warm to the touch. I visited a local clinic that could not diagnose the problem, but they prescribed a broad-spectrum antibiotic that they said was effective against a wide range of bacteria. Sadly, this did not work. When we arrived at FAME, the doctor performed a pelvic exam and ultrasound and said I needed emergency surgery to remove a growth in my uterus.”
After a successful operation without significant complications or adverse effects, Cecilia’s pain is mostly gone and she is finally starting to feel better. She reports feeling weak and fatigued nine days post-op, but this is normal as the body recovers from the physical stress of the procedure. Her older sister, who accompanied her on this check-up, is nursing her back to health.
“My sister makes sure that I follow all the doctor’s instructions, including attending all doctor follow-up appointments despite us living 86 miles from FAME! She provides me with proper post-operative care to promote healing and prevent complications by ensuring I eat a balanced diet. At the same time, she helps with all my chores at home to prevent me from doing strenuous activities. She has truly been godsent!”
Cecilia poses with her sister at FAME’s Outpatient Clinic (OPD).
Cecilia is grateful to FAME for all the care she has received.
“Without FAME, I would probably be dead by now! I am happy that my sister brought me here. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the professionalism and kindness of everyone I encountered, from the reception staff to the medical staff who provided my care. FAME’s facilities were clean and well-equipped and your commitment to providing top-notch medical services was evident in everything you did. This place has been a blessing to my family and me.”
Since being designated a Level 1 District Hospital in 2020, FAME is seeing more and more complex cases requiring surgical intervention. Given the limited number of practicing surgeons in Tanzania, death rates in Tanzania remain high for common, easily treatable conditions like appendicitis, hernia, obstructed labor, bowel obstruction, and burns for lack of surgical capability. Access to safe and timely local surgical services remains critical for those in our catchment area. FAME is investing heavily in growing its surgical capabilities over the next five years to meet this need.
*While the patient’s name has been changed to protect privacy, permission was secured to share her photos and story with FAME supporters and to raise awareness of available medical care at FAME Medical.