Zimbabwe acquires equipment for open-heart surgery

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has procured a heart-lung machine and a heater-cooler system to support open-heart surgeries at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare services.

In a statement, the ministry said the new equipment would enable cardiothoracic surgeons to perform more procedures locally, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad. "The government of Zimbabwe, through the Ministry of Health and Child Care, has procured a heart-lung machine and a heater-cooler for use in open-heart surgery at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals," the statement read. "This equipment will allow cardiothoracic surgeons in the country to undertake more cases."

Open-heart surgery requires highly specialised machinery, with the heart-lung machine taking over the functions of the heart and lungs during operations. The heater-cooler system complements the procedure by regulating the patient's body temperature, a critical factor in successful outcomes.

Until now, limited availability of such equipment has constrained the number of open-heart procedures conducted in Zimbabwe. Parirenyatwa, the country's largest referral centre, is expected to expand its cardiothoracic operations once the new machinery is installed.

The ministry noted that the procurement also aligns with broader efforts to retain specialised skills in the health sector. "By equipping our hospitals with modern technology, we are creating an enabling environment for our cardiothoracic surgeons and enhancing their ability to save more lives," the statement said.

The government emphasised that investment in advanced medical infrastructure remains a priority under its national vision of achieving universal health coverage. "Our focus remains on building a resilient health system that responds effectively to the needs of the population," the ministry added.

The heart-lung machine and heater-cooler system are expected to be commissioned in the coming weeks after installation and calibration, paving the way for improved access to life-saving cardiac care in Zimbabwe.