In the operating room of Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul, The Gambia, a local woman awaited surgery for a cyst in her right adnexal region. The procedure, requiring laparoscopic exploration, was led by Dr. Yang Qing, a visiting expert in obstetrics and gynecology.
Dr. Yang had arrived just two days earlier with a team of medical professionals as part of a weeklong training program aimed at enhancing local healthcare capabilities. Assisting her was Dr. Cai Guiyang, leader of the latest Chinese medical team in The Gambia. Dr. Cai, who began his clinical practice in 2010, has been involved in medical aid efforts since 2019.
Also participating in the procedure were Gambian medical professionals Dr. Kebba Gassama and nurse Mariama Baye. Both had undergone training in China the previous year and continued refining their skills under Dr. Cai’s guidance. Their involvement marked a significant step in local medical progress, as they transitioned from passive observers to active surgical participants.
Throughout the operation, Dr. Yang provided real-time instruction, helping Dr. Gassama navigate the procedure. The surgery was successful, with the ovarian cyst safely removed. Dr. Cai described the experience as a crucial learning moment, emphasizing the importance of precision in every step.
For Dr. Gassama and Nurse Baye, their training in China had been transformative, offering hands-on experience in minimally invasive techniques. However, upon returning home, they faced challenges due to gaps in medical resources, particularly in infection control and sterilization procedures.
Dr. Yang highlighted that China’s medical aid goes beyond equipment donations, focusing on improving medical standards, quality control, and personnel training. She envisions a future where Gambian doctors trained in laparoscopic surgery will pass on their expertise to the next generation, ensuring sustainable medical advancements.
