In a landmark achievement for South Africa’s medical landscape, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) made headlines in 2024 by performing the country’s first Trans-Oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach.
This revolutionary procedure, led by Specialist General Surgeon Dr Winnie Mathe and under the mentorship of Professor Zack Koto, marked a significant advancement in minimally invasive surgery and positions SMU as a premier institution in health sciences education and practce.
The technique allows for thyroid surgery without visible scars, utilising natural orifices to access the thyroid gland. This innovative approach not only eliminates the traditional cervical scar but also offers patients a quicker recovery time and reduced postoperative pain.
“Patient selection is crucial for Trans-Oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach; we focus on those fit for anaesthesia with small, single-lobe thyroid tumours,” explains Mathe, highlighting the precision and care involved in this groundbreaking procedure.
The first patient—a 29-year-old woman diagnosed with a solitary thyroid nodule—benefitted from the surgery, which resulted in minimal blood loss and a swift recovery. “The patient was discharged the very next day with no complications,” Mathe confirms.
This successful operation underscores the exceptional capabilities of SMU’s medical professionals and showcases the institution’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of surgical innovation.
As a key player in South Africa’s healthcare education, SMU has consistently championed advancements in medical practice. The surgery exemplifies the exceptional skills of its scholars, specialists, and doctors, who are dedicated to improving patient outcomes while addressing the complexities of healthcare delivery in the nation.
In a broader context, SMU’s accomplishments in 2024 reflect a steadfast commitment to healthcare excellence. The university not only equips its graduates with the necessary skills but also fosters a culture of innovation and research that directly benefits the South African healthcare system.
Koto emphasises the need for improved infrastructure at SMU, stating, “Imagine what we could achieve with a proper academic hospital. Our next project is the liver transplant programme.”
The pioneering efforts of Mathe and her team in performing the first Trans-Oral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach surgery in South Africa set a new standard in thyroid surgery and exemplify the crucial role SMU plays in shaping the future of health sciences.
As the university continues to lead in surgical innovation, its scholars and specialists are at the forefront of a healthcare revolution, providing South Africans with access to advanced medical care while enhancing the nation’s health system.