The Kingston Public Hospital now boast a new laser lithotripter, donated by the Art of Surgery and the Ameena Gafoor Foundation.

On Thursday, July 3rd, Dr Reaud Gafoor, Chief of Urology at Art of Surgery, officially presented the laser lithotripter to the Urology Unit at KPH.

The $10 million lithotripter is an advanced surgical tool that allows urologists to treat patients with kidney stone disease more efficiently and safely using minimally invasive means, without the need for an open incision. “We can now perform surgeries with higher success rates, fewer complications, and in less time in Jamaica’s largest Urology Service, helping to decrease suffering and limit the long waiting lists currently being experienced by those suffering from the disease,” said Gafoor.

“We are deeply grateful to the Art of Surgery for their generous donation of a lithotripter laser to the Urology Department at Kingston Public Hospital,” said KPH’s CEO, Barrington Graham. “Contributions like these play a vital role in strengthening our capacity to deliver quality patient care. We welcome and appreciate the continued support of donors who share our commitment to advancing healthcare and improving outcomes for the people we serve. We look forward to continued partnerships that help build a stronger, more responsive public health system.”

Other key KPH personnel at the presentation included: Senior Medical Officer Dr Trevor Bygrave, Consultant Urologist Dr Dean Wong, and Joan Taylor-Henry, Department Manager for KPH’s operating theatre.

Urinary stone disease affects 1 in 10 people in their lifetime. It is associated with debilitating pain, potential for blockage and loss of kidneys, and life-threatening infections. Laser lithotripsy represents one of the most powerful instruments for Urologists dealing with stone disease, allowing surgeons to navigate difficult cases with confidence while minimising surgical complications. Patients can return to work and exercise earlier, and to their normal daily lives quicker.

Art of Surgery is a leading centre of surgical care in Kingston, with advanced treatments. Its facilities include two operating theatres and private rooms on request. They perform approximately 1,000 cases annually.

The Ameena Gafoor Foundation bears the name of the late Guyanese educator, editor, publisher, arts
patron, and philanthropist who wrote extensively on indentureship and its legacies. She supported the arts and humanities as well as the delivery of healthcare to the needy and suffering throughout her lifetime. She was also the mother of Dr Gafoor.