The Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) surgical team successfully performed a life-saving emergency operation on a 22-year-old woman at Ng’anga Bilonda Hospital in Mwansabombwe District on 22nd April 2026.

The patient, who was referred from St Paul’s Mission Hospital in Nchelenge, arrived in critical condition requiring urgent surgical intervention.

Lead surgeon, Dr. Seke Kazuma, explained that the patient presented with severe abdominal pain that initially started in the right lower abdomen and progressively worsened over four days. The pain later spread across the abdomen and was accompanied by bloating, vomiting, and an inability to pass stool.

Following assessment, the medical team diagnosed her with peritonitis, a serious and potentially fatal infection of the abdominal cavity.

During surgery, the team discovered approximately two litres of pus in the abdomen. Further examination revealed that the infection was caused by a ruptured appendix that had perforated the cecum.

To control the infection and save the patient’s life, the surgical team performed a right hemicolectomy, removing the affected portion of the colon.

Post-operatively, the patient was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where she was placed on life support. She has since been successfully weaned off most support and continues to recover well under antibiotic treatment.

Dr. Kazuma noted that the patient’s condition is now stable and emphasized that early presentation and timely surgical intervention were critical in saving her life.

He further highlighted that ZFDS continues to provide specialist surgical services in remote and underserved communities, ensuring that life-saving care is accessible to all, regardless of location.