Ghana’s First Pinhole Weight-Loss Surgery Changes Lives At UGMC
Ghana has entered a new era in modern healthcare. The University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) performed the country’s first-ever pinhole obesity surgery on July 25, 2025.
The laparoscopic gastric sleeve procedure, also known as bariatric surgery, involved removing nearly 80% of the patient’s stomach. The goal? Long-term, safe weight loss.
How the surgery was done: tiny cuts, major impact
Led by Dr. Kenedy Ondede from Kenya’s Kenyatta National Hospital, the UGMC team used five pinhole-sized incisions. These cuts allowed cameras and tools to operate with minimal invasion.
“We turn inside to outside to see everything,” Dr. Ondede explained.
With precision, the team detached and removed most of the stomach—shrinking it to a narrow tube. This limits food intake and helps burn stored fat.
Minimal risks, maximum results: benefits of laparoscopic obesity surgery
The intended side effect is weight loss. With balanced diets and supplements, patients can live normal, healthy lives after surgery.
Obesity increases risks for:
- Heart disease
- Poor sugar control
- Joint pain
- Breathing issues
“When patients reduce weight, they gain renewed life,” Dr. Ondede emphasized.
Historic milestone: UGMC blazes new trails in healthcare
Dr. Dominic Darkwa, a UGMC General Surgeon, called the operation a turning point for advanced clinical care in Ghana.
Dr. Emmanuel Nachelleh, Head of Surgery at UGMC, supported the initiative amid growing obesity cases. He said 17–25% of Ghanaians are obese, making this innovation timely.
“This is our first, and no other hospital in Ghana has done it,” he noted.
Public health warning: prevention still beats cure
Dr. Darkwa cautioned Ghanaians to adopt healthier eating and lifestyle habits. Avoid sugary snacks, cut down on portion sizes, and stay active.
Still, for those who cannot lose weight conventionally, pinhole obesity surgery is now an option—pending medical assessment.
Global context: why obesity is a global crisis
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as excessive fat accumulation that poses health risks.
Key stats:
- A BMI over 30 indicates obesity.
- 5 million deaths in 2019 were linked to high BMI.
- Between 1990 and 2022, global child obesity quadrupled.
- Adult obesity more than doubled in the same period.
Ghana is not immune.
Call to action: embrace prevention and support medical innovation
Now that pinhole obesity surgery in Ghana is a reality, Ghanaians must stay informed and proactive. Eat well. Move more. Get assessed if needed.
Take-home message: innovation meets prevention
- UGMC performed Ghana’s first pinhole obesity surgery, marking a national health milestone.
- The laparoscopic gastric sleeve is safe, effective, and minimally invasive.
- Ghanaians must avoid unhealthy lifestyles and consider surgical help when needed.
- Obesity is a national threat. Innovation and prevention must go hand in hand.
