UPTH Kidney Transplantation Centre Nears Completion, 85% Done

The Management of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) has announced that its kidney transplantation centre is nearing completion, with 85% of the project already done.

The hospital said the significant milestone is attributed to the collaboration with Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG), which has funded the provision of equipment and external works.

According to Professor Datonye Alasia, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), the hospital is on track to meet its October 2024 target for commencing kidney transplantation.

Professor Alasia disclosed this during the Hospital Ground Rounds presentation by the Renal Department noting that the centre’s establishment is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to providing specialised healthcare services and improving patient outcomes.

He said with 85% of the project complete, the facility is poised to become a leading centre for kidney transplantation in Nigeria, offering hope to countless individuals suffering from kidney disease.

“For us, our strategic timeline is October and that’s what we are working towards but of course, if all the assumptions go as we plan, it will be October because we have training of staff, people will travel, MoUs will be signed, procurement timelines will also affect us but our focus is to stay on that date and see that we achieve it,” he said.

Professor Datonye Alasia emphasised the significance of the presentation, stating that its purpose is to raise awareness among the hospital community and the public about the services offered and the multidisciplinary approach involved in renal transplantation.

“Today’s presentation by the Renal Department aims to educate our team and the public about the various aspects of transplantation, including the roles of nephrologists, pharmacists, paediatricians, nurses, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals.”

Alasia highlighted the importance of teamwork in providing comprehensive care to transplant patients.
“This presentation helps our team members understand their responsibilities and how their contributions impact the patient’s journey. It also fosters a spirit of collaboration among our multidisciplinary team.”

The hospital has established a dedicated transplant clinic to demonstrate its preparedness for the transplantation program.

“We have launched a structured transplant clinic, separate from the nephrology and urology clinics, to provide focused care to pre- and post-transplant patients.

This dedicated service is now available to the public, and we welcome collaborations with foundations and organisations interested in supporting transplantation efforts. Kidney transplantation is a costly endeavour, and partnerships are essential to ensuring its success.”

Also, the Transplant Team Lead at UPTH, Professor Onyenunam Ekeke, addressed the Ground Rounds, highlighting the prospects of launching a kidney transplant program at the hospital.

He emphasised that UPTH boasts a large team of skilled personnel and a significant patient population requiring transplants.

Although the programme has not commenced yet, the hospital is actively working towards its implementation.

Ekeke revealed that the kidney transplant programme is a strategic initiative of the hospital’s management, aligned with their five-year development plan.

To achieve this goal, he said, UPTH is collaborating with local and international centres, leveraging the expertise of sister institutions.

He added that a dedicated building has been designated for the program, thanks to the management’s efforts.

As the Deputy Provost of the College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Ekeke encouraged the public to recognize that kidney failure can be effectively treated through transplantation, a safe and accessible option for all.

He emphasised the importance of awareness and education in promoting access to this life-saving service.