Jordanian doctor performs rare surgery in Gaza

A Jordanian doctor has performed rare vascular surgery at Dar Al-Shifa’ Hospital in Gaza, cleaning the carotid artery of a 45 year-old man suffering temporary blindness as a result of arterial blockages. Professor Walid Masoud led a team of doctors from the hospital throughout the operation.

According to Dr. Ismail Aljadbah, the hospital’s Head of Vascular Surgery, patients requiring this treatment are normally sent overseas due to the shortage of facilities and equipment created by Israel’s siege of Gaza. Medical personnel are also prevented by the blockade from attending professional development training and courses to upgrade their skills. Surgical Consultant Dr. Subhi Sakek at Al-Shifa’ said that the experience of taking part in such a rare operation will boost the skills base at the hospital. More patients will benefit as a result, he added.

The team of doctors from Jordan have performed a number of specialist operations since their arrival in Gaza with their Palestinian colleagues.