Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 05: In a historic landmark step toward strengthening global healthcare collaboration, Mumbai-based senior laparoscopic and laser surgeon Dr Jiten Chowdhry successfully introduced Rwanda’s first Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLA) for varicose veins and laser procedures for haemorrhoids at King Faisal Hospital, Kigali, in partnership with the Rwanda Ministry of Health.
The initiative marks a major advancement in minimally invasive vascular and anorectal care in Rwanda and reflects a growing model of international medical knowledge exchange focused on long-term sustainability thus placing India on the forefront of knowledge transfer.
A Milestone in Modern Vascular & Anorectal Care
Varicose veins are a common yet often debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide. Traditional surgical treatment typically involves vein stripping — a more invasive procedure requiring larger incisions, longer recovery time, and extended hospitalisation.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLA), by contrast, is a minimally invasive technique that uses laser energy to seal diseased veins from within. Performed under regional anaesthesia,
the procedure significantly reduces surgical trauma, post-operative discomfort, and recovery time while improving patient outcomes.
Similarly, haemorrhoids (commonly known as piles) are swollen vascular cushions in the anal canal that can cause bleeding, pain, itching, and discomfort. Conventional surgical approaches often involve significant post-operative pain and prolonged recovery. Modern laser treatment for haemorrhoids offers a minimally invasive alternative, reducing tissue damage, minimising bleeding, and allowing patients to resume normal activities much faster.
In addition to varicose veins and haemorrhoids, laser techniques were also introduced for anorectal conditions such as fissures and piles, enhancing Rwanda’s capability in advanced proctological care.
Until now, patients in Rwanda seeking advanced laser treatment for varicose veins and haemorrhoids frequently had to travel abroad, facing financial and logistical challenges. The introduction of these procedures at King Faisal Hospital now provides access to world-class minimally invasive care within the country.
“This is a transformative step for vascular and anorectal care in Rwanda,” said Dr. Clement, vascular surgeon at King Faisal Hospital. “We are now equipped with the skills, technology, and confidence to provide advanced laser treatment locally. This will greatly benefit our patients and enhance our surgical capabilities.”
Collaborative Surgical Effort
During this milestone initiative, Dr Brehan and Dr Fidel were actively involved in the laser treatment of piles and fissures. Their participation in patient assessment, procedural execution, and post-operative care ensured a collaborative approach to introducing advanced laser proctology techniques in Rwanda.
Working alongside Dr Chowdhry, the team focused not only on performing successful cases but also on strengthening local expertise in managing haemorrhoids, fissures, and other anorectal disorders through laser technology. Their engagement reflects the hospital’s commitment to adopting modern, patient-friendly surgical solutions.
Beyond Surgery: A Commitment to Skill Transfer
While the introduction of EVLA and laser treatment for haemorrhoids represents a medical milestone, the broader impact lies in structured training and knowledge transfer.
Dr Chowdhry worked closely with the Rwandan surgical team, guiding them through patient evaluation, procedural planning, laser technique, safety protocols, and post-operative management. The objective was clear: ensure local surgeons could independently continue offering the procedures with confidence.
Within days of the initial cases, Rwandan doctors successfully performed additional laser procedures, reporting highly satisfactory early outcomes. One minor post-operative event was managed conservatively without complication, reinforcing both procedural safety and team preparedness.
“Surgical outreach must go beyond performing cases,” Dr Chowdhry stated. “The real achievement lies in empowering local systems. When teams gain both competence and confidence, healthcare evolves sustainably.”
He further added,
“Medicine progresses when knowledge crosses borders. Our responsibility as surgeons is not only to treat patients but also to build systems that continue delivering advanced care long after we leave.”
Strengthening Global Healthcare Collaboration
The collaboration between King Faisal Hospital and Dr Chowdhry reflects a modern approach to international healthcare partnerships — focused not on temporary intervention but on capacity building.
By equipping local surgeons with advanced minimally invasive skills in vascular and anorectal laser procedures, the initiative supports Rwanda’s long-term healthcare development goals and reduces dependence on overseas medical treatment.
The program also highlights the increasing role of Indian medical professionals in global health collaboration. India’s expertise in high-volume minimally invasive and laser surgery has positioned its surgeons as key contributors in international training and outreach programs.
Impact for Patients and the Healthcare System
The availability of EVLA and laser treatment for haemorrhoids in Rwanda is expected to:
- Improve access to modern vein and anorectal treatment
- Reduce patient travel abroad for advanced procedures
- Lower overall healthcare costs for families
- Strengthen local surgical infrastructure
- Enhance confidence within Rwanda’s vascular and proctology ecosystem
For patients, the benefit is immediate — shorter recovery times, reduced discomfort, minimal scarring, and access to advanced care closer to home.
For the healthcare system, it represents a meaningful step toward greater self-reliance, modernisation, and sustainable surgical advancement.
About Dr Jiten Chowdhry
Dr Jiten Chowdhry is a Mumbai-based Laparoscopic and Laser Surgeon with extensive expertise in minimally invasive, vascular, and anorectal procedures.
He currently serves as:
- Vice President, International Society of Coloproctology
- Medical Director, Sigma Superspeciality Hospital, Mulund West, Mumbai
- Medical Director, Ruby Hospital, Bhandup West, Mumbai
- Visiting Consultant, Fortis Hospital, Mulund West
- Visiting Consultant, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chembur
Dr Chowdhry is widely recognised for his work in advanced laser procedures and his commitment to surgical education and skill transfer initiatives both in India and internationally.
Media Contact
For further information, interviews, or speaking engagements, please contact:
Ruby Hospital , Bhandup west
+91 98673 33236 / +91 89281 33041
Sigma Hospital, Mulund west
+91 77770 44086
Website: https://pilesclinicmumbai.in/, arogyamhealingtouch.in, drjitenchowdhry.com
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