KNH makes history by performing world’s first Transhumeral TSR surgery

The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has made medical history by performing the world’s first Transhumeral Targeted Sensory Reinnervation (TSR) surgery.

The groundbreaking procedure, which involves restoring sensation to the stump of an amputated left arm, was successfully done on a 22-year-old software engineering student, Moses Mwendwa, on April 29, 2025.

The seven-hour technique is a form of plastic surgery which reroutes severed nerves from an amputated limb to remaining skin, enabling the brain to interpret sensations like touch, temperature, and pain as if they were still coming from the missing limb.

“For the first time since losing my hand, I can feel it again. That’s not just medicine—it’s magic,” Mwendwa said, following the surgery.

“This achievement is not just a medical breakthrough—it’s a restoration of dignity, function, and hope,” said Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, KNH’s Head of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. “By creating this neural hand map, we're changing what's possible for amputees.”

 KNH CEO Dr. Evanson Kamuri lauded the medical team’s achievement, noting: “This reaffirms our commitment to strategic partnerships and demonstrates that KNH is home to world-class professionals and cutting-edge technology.”

The surgery conducted during Africa’s first TSR Surgical Camp, hosted at KNH to mark a significant advancement in post-amputation care, was led by a multinational team of doctors spearheaded by Prof. Ferdinand Nang’ole, Dr. Wabwire, and visiting Italian surgeon Prof. Alexander Gardetto.

The team was supported by Dr. Dorsi Jowi, Dr. Christine Nyabuto, and Dr. Rachel Machiya, with anaesthesia led by Dr. John Mwanzia and Dr. Ruth Nyambura. The surgical nursing team was headed by Mr. Erick Odongo, with Ms. Mercy Chepkemoi, Ms. Esther Munga, and Ms. Catherine Muthengi providing essential support.

According to the hospital, Mwendwa fell after a church service in Nairobi’s Ziwani area in January this year, leading to a severe case of compartment syndrome—a dangerous condition caused by increased pressure in muscle compartments.

"After inconclusive diagnoses at two facilities, he was rushed to KNH, where doctors conducted emergency surgeries that ultimately led to the amputation of his dominant arm on January 24. The emotional toll was immense, with weeks of grief and adjustment for both Moses and his family," stated the facility in a statement to newsrooms.