For parents, few things are more heartbreaking than seeing their child face a serious health challenge. The journey can be long and emotionally taxing, especially when dealing with rare conditions.
Recently, a two-year-old boy from Indonesia underwent Malaysia’s first-ever Kelly procedure, a highly advanced reconstructive surgery for a rare congenital condition called bladder exstrophy. This groundbreaking surgery, performed by a team led by local expert Dr. Roger Anthony Idi and world-renowned paediatric urologist Professor Imran Mushtaq, is a life-changing event that promises a brighter future for children and their families.
What is Bladder Exstrophy?
Bladder exstrophy is a rare congenital condition where a baby’s bladder develops outside the body. It affects roughly one in 40,000 newborns. Without surgical intervention, children with this condition face lifelong challenges, including a complete reliance on diapers. This can have a profound affect on a child’s social and mental well-being, leading to feelings of shame and social anxiety due to the stigma of their condition.
The Kelly procedure offers a solution. Performed on children typically between two and three years old, this intricate surgery uses the child’s own muscle and soft tissue to reconstruct the bladder neck. This creates a new, functional sphincter, which is crucial for improving bladder capacity and allowing for controlled urination. In essence, it gives the child the ability to one day live a normal life without the constant worry of incontinence.
(2nd from left) Dr. Roger Anthony Idi, Consultant Urologist at Prince Court and Professor Imran Mushtaq, Consultant Paediatric Urologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, together with the visiting observer surgeon and operating theatre nurse.
A Collaborative Milestone
This pioneering surgery was the result of an international collaboration that brought Professor Mushtaq, an expert known for his work in complex reconstructive surgeries, to Malaysia. This partnership not only changed the life of one young boy, who is now recovering well, but also elevated Malaysia’s position on the global healthcare stage.
“By working alongside Professor Mushtaq, we are strengthening our surgical capabilities, training our teams and building the pathways needed for Prince Court to become the go-to referral destination for rare and complex urological conditions in the region,” said Dr. Roger.
Professor Mushtaq emphasises the importance of early intervention. The earlier these conditions are treated, the better the long-term outcomes for the child. With the right expertise and infrastructure, children with bladder exstrophy can go on to live healthy, functional lives.
Malaysia as a Hub for Advanced Care
Prince Court Medical Centre has long been recognised as a leader in multi-specialty care, attracting patients from around the region. This milestone strengthens Malaysia’s position as a global healthcare destination, bringing world-class surgical expertise closer to families in Southeast Asia.
Dr. Shuba Srinivasan, Chief Executive Officer of Prince Court, noted: “This milestone showcases Prince Court’s ability to deliver highly specialised procedures for all our patients. It reflects our commitment to providing world-class surgical care within the region, upholding the highest international standards and strengthening our role as a destination of choice for advanced healthcare.”
For parents navigating a difficult diagnosis, this story is a powerful reminder that hope is on the horizon. With advancements in medical technology and the dedication of world-class experts, children with rare conditions can receive the specialised care they need to thrive and live life to the fullest.
