Doctors in the operating room. — Photo courtesy of Việt Nam’s Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation No 7

HÀ NỘI — Just one week after taking over from Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation No 6 under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Việt Nam’s Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation No 7 achieved a significant milestone by successfully performing its first emergency appendectomy.

The patient, a soldier from Ghana’s infantry unit, was admitted on Friday at 9pm local time with severe right lower abdominal pain that had lasted since the morning. Emergency doctors diagnosed suspected acute appendicitis at risk of rupture, prompting immediate surgery.

Hospital leaders activated UN-standard emergency protocols, consulted the UNMISS Medical Command, and approved surgery that night.

After nearly one hour, the operation was completed successfully. The patient was transferred to the ICU later, fully conscious and responding well.

The achievement is particularly impressive given that the Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation No 7 had only been operational in South Sudan for a week, while simultaneously handling logistics, adapting to the harsh environment, and setting up facilities.

The medical team showcased professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to ensure uninterrupted care.

During its first week, the hospital treated 36 patients, including 18 emergencies.

The successful surgery reinforces the hospital’s medical capabilities and the international community’s confidence in Việt Nam’s peacekeeping medical personnel, exemplifying the readiness for peace support. — VNS