NSIRH Performs Historic Total Knee Replacement Surgery on Hemophilia Patient – A First in Hospital’s History

Oct 16, 2025

The National Spinal Injury Referral Hospital (NSIRH) has achieved a groundbreaking medical milestone by successfully performing its first-ever total knee replacement surgery on a patient living with severe Hemophilia A. On October 16, 2025, a 31-year-old male patient underwent the complex procedure to address severe osteoarthritis of the knee, which had caused chronic pain, disability, and reduced quality of life. This achievement marks a major advancement in orthopaedic and rehabilitation care for patients with bleeding disorders in Kenya.

A Triumph of Planning, Teamwork, and Expertise

The surgery was led by Dr. Elesban Kihuba, supported by a skilled multidisciplinary team including Dr. Kelvin Mwaura, Dr. Rebecca Mwakichako (Moi County Referral Hospital – Voi), Dr. Divinah Iteba, the anaesthesia team led by Dr. Andrew Mureithi, and the nursing team led by Angela Musungu. Crucial support was provided by the Laboratory Services Unit, ensuring optimal intraoperative and postoperative management of clotting factors. The Kenya Haemophilia Association (KHA) medical advisory committee also played a vital role in guiding the process. This success demonstrates that with proper planning and collaboration, Hemophilia patients can safely undergo life-changing orthopedic interventions. It aligns with the World Federation of Hemophilia’s mission to achieve zero bleeds, disabilities, and deaths among people living with the condition.

Expanding NSIRH’s Role in Specialized Care

“This milestone underscores our hospital’s evolution into a center of excellence not just in spinal care, but also in complex orthopaedics. It reflects our core vision for advanced patient care, teaching, research, and innovation,” said the surgical team. Remarkably, this achievement coincided with World Spine Day, themed “Invest in Your Spine”, further highlighting NSIRH’s commitment to holistic musculoskeletal health.

Looking Ahead

As the patient continues his rehabilitation journey, NSIRH remains dedicated to leveraging multidisciplinary expertise, research, and innovation to push the boundaries of care for patients with complex medical conditions.

This historic procedure reaffirms NSIRH’s position as a national leader in spinal and musculoskeletal rehabilitation and its growing role in advanced orthopedic surgery within the region.