Sickle cell: Mulago performs 25 free hip replacement surgeries

What the report says

Mulago National Referral Hospital in Uganda has carried out 25 free hip replacement operations for people living with sickle cell disease, according to The Observer. The procedures were done during a surgical camp that was scheduled to end on Friday and focused on osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, a complication that can damage bone tissue when blood flow is reduced.

The report quotes Dr Philip Kasirye, head of Mulago’s Sickle Cell Clinic, saying bone complications affect a minority of the clinic’s patients but are often too expensive to treat. He explained that sickle cell crises can block small blood vessels and lead to severe pain, trouble walking and joint damage, especially in the hip and shoulder. Dr Alex Bangirana, a senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon, said many patients are left with limited treatment options because they cannot afford surgery, which can cost about 25 million Ugandan shillings before subsidy.

Mulago executive director Dr Rosemary Byanyima said the hospital has trained surgeons but often lacks implants and some supplies, while also facing funding and infrastructure pressures. State minister for health in charge of primary health care Dr Charles Ayume said the government plans to improve infrastructure and expand use of intensive care beds to support sickle cell care.

RareMark Foundation, which registered beneficiaries, said more than 100 people signed up for the camp, underscoring demand for specialised treatment. The initiative also gave medical trainees practical exposure to managing sickle cell complications.