At 110, most people might expect their health concerns to be met with hesitation rather than hope. However, at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), age is not a barrier to quality care.
In a remarkable display of medical expertise and compassion, a team of specialists successfully performed bladder stone surgery on a centenarian patient — who was discharged just 48 hours later, free from pain and ready to continue life’s journey.
This compelling case brings to light a critical conversation in Nigerian healthcare: the importance of geriatric surgery and the need for older adults to seek necessary medical interventions, regardless of age.
The Reality of Geriatric Surgery in Nigeria
Nigeria’s elderly population is growing, yet access to surgical care for this age group remains limited. According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Nigeria’s population aged 60 and above is projected to reach approximately 26.4 million by 2050.
Despite this significant increase, geriatric surgical interventions remain infrequent due to systemic challenges, societal fears, and gaps in specialized care. Fear of complications, lack of awareness, and cultural beliefs that surgery is too risky for the aged often prevent patients and their families from pursuing potentially life-saving procedures.
A study published in the Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice revealed that less than 20% of elderly patients recommended for surgery in tertiary hospitals proceed with the operation, primarily due to fear of mortality and financial limitations.
The consequences of avoiding surgery can be severe, leading to prolonged suffering, diminished quality of life, and preventable deaths.
Conditions such as bladder stones, hernias, cataracts, and joint degeneration can significantly impair day-to-day living and the overall quality of life. Yet, these issues are often treatable with the proper surgical interventions and comprehensive post-operative care.
How Often Do Older Patients Seek Surgical Solutions?
Studies show that many older Nigerians avoid surgery, opting instead for conservative treatments that may not fully address their health issues.
The African Surgical Outcomes Study (ASOS) found that while surgical patients over 70 had a higher risk of complications, these risks were significantly reduced with proper perioperative management.
This hesitancy to seek surgical care is not unique to Nigeria but reflects a global pattern. A study in The Lancet Healthy Longevity noted that across low- and middle-income countries,
elderly patients are 30% less likely to undergo needed surgeries than younger adults, even when surgery is the best option for improved health outcomes.
However, these statistics shouldn’t deter patients but rather emphasize the importance of accessing healthcare facilities equipped with the expertise to handle geriatric cases.
Expertise and Capacity in Geriatric Care at OAUTHC
OAUTHC stands as a trailblazer in geriatric healthcare, continuously expanding its capacity to care for elderly patients.
The successful bladder stone surgery was led by Professor Ayo Salako, a consultant Urologist supported by a robust team of doctors , anaesthesiologists , and
nurses. Their collective experience, meticulous risk assessment, and steadfast dedication to patient welfare ensured a smooth procedure and swift recovery.
Prof. Salako, reflecting on the case, remarked, “Age should never be a deterrent to receiving proper healthcare. With the right expertise, preparation, and post-operative care, elderly patients can and do thrive after surgery.”
OAUTHC’s approach exemplifies how specialized teams can mitigate surgical risks in elderly patients. Comprehensive pre-operative assessments, personalized anaesthetic
techniques, and diligent monitoring during recovery all contribute to positive surgical outcomes.
Such an integrated approach ensures that patients, even those over a century old, can confidently undergo surgery.
The Role of Family and Community Support
Family and community are essential in an elderly patient’s decision to seek care. Cultural beliefs that surgery is a “death sentence” for the aged often prevent older Nigerians from considering surgical procedures. However, with more success stories, such as those of the 110-year-old patient, perspectives are slowly shifting.
Studies have shown that family support during recovery is just as crucial as medical expertise. Research published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine highlights that elderly patients with strong emotional and physical support post-surgery are more likely to regain functional independence within six months.
Sanusi Yekeen, the 110 years beneficiary of a successful bladder stone surgery, was cared for by his agile older son, who is 75 years old and a much younger son in his early 30s.
Leading the Way in Elderly Care
As one of Nigeria’s foremost teaching hospitals, OAUTHC continues to prioritize elderly care, blending capacity with human-centred practices. The hospital’s experts work diligently,
dispelling myths around surgery in old age and empowering the elderly to make informed decisions about their health.
The success of the recent surgery highlights OAUTHC’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of possibility. It sends a powerful message to seniors and their loved ones:advanced age does not equate to hopelessness.
Encouragement for Patients and Families
For families caring for elderly relatives, the message from OAUTHC’s surgical team is clear: seek care when needed and trust in the evolving capabilities of Nigerian healthcare. Timely intervention can prevent unnecessary suffering and add vibrant years to a patient’s life.
If you or a loved one grapples with a surgical decision, let this story inspire you to choose care over fear. Because, as our centenarian patient has shown, life’s possibilities don’t end at 100.
