KNH makes history by performing Africa's first tubeless windpipe surgery

In a statement on Friday, the five-hour operation was performed on September 24, 2026, at KNH’s Prime Care Centre on 26-year-old Dennis Kaiser Omondi, who had struggled with breathing difficulties for nearly 20 years.

The procedure was led by consultant cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon Dr Joseph Mutie, working alongside ear, nose and throat specialist Dr Ruel Maina and consultant anaesthesiologist and intensivist Dr Caroline Abuya.

Omondi was diagnosed with a benign adenoma, a non-cancerous growth in the windpipe, in 2008. Further investigations revealed narrowing of the trachea, which restricted airflow, as well as an abnormal opening between the windpipe and the skin of his neck.

The conditions affected his breathing, voice and ability to carry out daily activities.

During the surgery, the medical team used a tubeless technique that kept a conventional breathing tube out of the surgical field, giving the surgeon better visibility and access to the affected area.

The approach also allowed the team to use a bronchoscope, a small camera inserted into the airway, to identify the diseased section and guide its removal.

The patient continued breathing naturally throughout the procedure, which required close coordination between the surgical and anaesthesia teams to maintain oxygen levels and ensure his safety.

The doctors removed the narrowed sections of the windpipe, closed the abnormal opening, known as a fistula, and reconnected the healthy ends of the trachea to restore an open passage for breathing.

According to KNH, the technique can help minimise injury to the delicate lining of the windpipe, promote healing and improve surgical precision when treating complex airway conditions.

“This technique, the first in Africa, gives surgeons a clearer view of the affected windpipe, helping them work more precisely when treating complex airway conditions. It is an important step forward in the treatment of these conditions in Kenya,” Dr Mutie said.

KNH said the achievement reflects the role of specialised medical care, modern technology and multidisciplinary teamwork in treating complex conditions locally.

Chief Executive Officer Dr Richard Lesiyampe said the milestone demonstrated the ability of Kenyan medical professionals to deliver advanced treatment, allowing patients to access specialised services closer to home rather than travel abroad where suitable care is available in Kenya.

Prime Care Centre Senior Director Dr John Ngigi added that the achievement reflected the centre’s commitment to providing specialised, patient-centred care, while Senior Director of Clinical Services Dr Joel Lessan highlighted the importance of innovation and teamwork in managing complex medical conditions.

Omondi said he had experienced improvements in his voice and breathing following the operation and had resumed his daily activities, including running his retail shop in Kisumu.

“I have noticed an improvement in my voice, and I have resumed my daily activities, including running my retail shop in Kisumu. I can now climb a flight of stairs with greater ease, which is a significant improvement after years of breathing difficulties,” he said.

He will continue attending follow-up appointments at the Prime Care Centre following his discharge.