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Operation Open Heart in PNG, 1993-2006
N Tefuarani1, J Vince, R Hawker
1Clinical Sciences Division, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University, of Papua New Guinea, P.O. Box 5623, Boroko, National Capital District, Papua New Guinea. ntefuarani@gatec.net.pg
Heart, Lung & Circulation
|July 13, 2007
Summary
Operation Open Heart (OOH) successfully provided cardiac surgery in Papua New Guinea (PNG), achieving a high operation rate and low mortality. The program facilitated significant skill transfer to local healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Global Health
- Medical Education
Background:
- Papua New Guinea (PNG) faces challenges in providing advanced cardiac surgical care.
- The 'Operation Open Heart' (OOH) initiative aimed to address this gap through international collaboration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of the OOH cardiac surgical program in PNG.
- To document the short-term surgical results and assess skill transfer to national healthcare providers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a database containing records of patients operated on by a visiting cardiothoracic surgical team.
- Review of patient demographics, procedures performed, and clinical outcomes.
Main Results:
- 470 patients underwent operations, with 72% being children under 12.
- Open heart procedures were performed on 40% of patients, with a low short-term mortality rate of 1.9%.
- Significant clinical skill transfer occurred among national anaesthetists, surgeons, paediatricians, physicians, and nurses.
Conclusions:
- The OOH program exceeded previous efforts in operation rates and demonstrated a lower mortality.
- The initiative successfully delivered services and facilitated substantial skill transfer, establishing a capable local team for procedures like patent ductus repair.
- The program proved cost-effective and less disruptive for patients and families compared to prior initiatives.
