Western Regional Hospital Performs First Laparoscopic Surgery

The Western Regional Hospital (WRH) successfully performed its first laparoscopic surgery, a procedure carried out by a team of doctors led by Belizean surgeon Dr. Greg Arana.  The groundbreaking operation forms part of an ongoing partnership between the Ministry of Health and Wellness and Surgical Outreach for the Americas, or SOFA, aimed at expanding minimally invasive surgical services throughout Belize’s public healthcare system.  Laparoscopic surgery, often referred to as minimally invasive surgery, utilizes specialized instruments and small incisions, allowing patients to experience less pain, reduced scarring, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times when compared to traditional open surgery.  The procedure at the Western Regional Hospital represents the latest step in a nationwide Laparoscopic Capacity Building Training Program that is equipping Belizean surgeons, nurses, and operating room technicians with the skills necessary to perform advanced surgical procedures closer to home.  According to Dr. Arana, who led the surgical team, says the successful operation was complemented with training courses.  

Dr. Arana also spoke about his ongoing involvement with Surgical Outreach For The Americas and the organization’s continued commitment to supporting healthcare development in Belize. He noted that SOFA representatives will participate in the upcoming Miramar Belize Day celebrations in Florida on July 11, where they will engage members of the Belizean diaspora and advocate for continued support for the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital.  The event coincides with the Ministry of Immigration’s Mobile Passport Hub, which will be operating in Miramar from July 9 through July 11, offering passport renewal and nationality-by-descent services to Belizeans living overseas.

Love News understands that the Director of Medical Services at the KHMH, Dr. Yyone (WHY-YONE) Swan will lead a delegation to Miramar, Florida, next month.