Kenya Performs First Knee Replacement on a Haemophilia A Patient
Over the past decade, the Novo Nordisk Haemophilia Foundation (NNHF) has worked in close partnership with the Kenya Haemophilia Association and other stakeholders in Kenya to advance care for haemophilia and allied disorders. These collaborative efforts have included the establishment of specialised treatment centres, the training of healthcare professionals in advanced and basic care, as well as increasing public awareness and supporting advocacy efforts.
In 2024, the NNHF further enhanced capacity by supporting a multidisciplinary team of Kenyan healthcare professionals to undertake advanced training. This included visits to the ICMR–National Institute of Immunohaematology in India and the University of Cape Town’s Department of Medicine in South Africa. These international experiences have contributed significantly to the expertise and confidence of Kenyan clinicians.
These ongoing initiatives have yielded remarkable outcomes. Notably, Kenya has now performed its first knee replacement surgery on a patient with haemophilia A. The procedure, conducted at the National Spinal Injury Referral Hospital (NSIRH), brought together a multidisciplinary team comprising orthopaedic surgeons, general surgeons, nurses, physiotherapists, anaesthetists and haematologists. The surgery was a resounding success and stands as a testament to the country’s growing capabilities in managing complex cases of haemophilia.
This breakthrough underscores the importance of national collaboration and the expertise built through sustained capacity-strengthening efforts. It positions Kenya and the Kenya Haemophilia Association as regional leaders in the management of haemophilia and allied disorders within East Africa.
The NNHF commends the dedication and achievements of the Kenya Haemophilia Association and acknowledges the leadership demonstrated by the Ministry of Health in advancing care for those affected by haemophilia and allied disorders throughout the country.
