Kenya Performs First-Ever Heart Procedure on Premature Newborn — Baby Now Thriving

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi has successfully performed Kenya's first-ever balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty on a premature newborn, marking a historic milestone in neonatal cardiac care for the entire East African region. The breakthrough procedure was carried out on one of premature twins delivered at just 34 weeks via emergency Caesarean section on January 2, 2026. Weighing only 2.26 kilograms (about 5 pounds), the baby was diagnosed with critical pulmonary valve stenosis — a serious congenital heart condition that restricts blood flow from the heart to the lungs. 'Soon after delivery, the affected twin developed breathing difficulties and required oxygen support,' the hospital said in a statement on February 24. 'Further medical assessment revealed an abnormal heart sound, prompting additional investigations.' An echocardiogram confirmed severe narrowing of the pulmonary valve, placing dangerous strain on the tiny heart and significantly reducing oxygen supply throughout the body. Without intervention, the condition is life-threatening. A multidisciplinary medical team recommended urgent intervention. On February 5, 2026, the delicate procedure was performed, lasting approximately one and a half hours. During balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty, doctors insert a small catheter through a blood vessel and guide it to the heart. Using camera guidance, a balloon is inflated to widen the narrowed valve and restore normal blood flow to the lungs. The results were remarkable. A follow-up assessment the next day showed significant improvement in blood flow and stable blood pressure. The baby was gradually weaned off oxygen and by February 10 was breathing completely on her own. 'The infant is now stable, feeding well and gaining strength under close monitoring,' KNH confirmed. The baby's mother expressed deep gratitude: 'I am grateful to God and to the doctors and nurses who never gave up on my baby.' The procedure was led by consultant paediatric cardiologists Dr Esther Kimani and Dr Naomi Gachara, assisted by Dr Tatiana Mutinda. The anaesthesia team was led by Dr Mbithi and Dr Kimtai. The second twin is also stable and doing well. This breakthrough positions KNH at the forefront of advanced neonatal cardiac interventions in Africa, demonstrating growing local capacity to manage complex congenital heart conditions — even in the most vulnerable premature infants — without needing to transfer patients abroad for treatment.