Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi has made history by conducting the first balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty on a preterm newborn in Kenya. This landmark procedure is a significant step forward for the country's neonatal cardiac care, showcasing advancements in medical technology and expertise. The procedure aimed to address critical pulmonary valve stenosis in a twin baby, which is a serious condition that impedes normal blood flow to the lungs.

The balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive technique where a catheter is used to deliver a balloon into the heart, which is then inflated to widen a narrowed pulmonary valve. This critical procedure allows for restoration of proper blood flow without the need for more invasive surgical options, underscoring a shift toward less invasive cardiac interventions in neonates. The operation was performed on Twin A, who was born weighing only 2.26 kg and was diagnosed with serious heart issues shortly after birth.

A multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Esther Kimani and Dr. Naomi Gach performed the procedure on February 5, 2026, shortly after the twins were delivered via emergency C-section on January 2. The successful outcome not only marks a milestone for Kenya's healthcare system but also provides hope for many families facing similar challenges, highlighting the critical need for enhanced neonatal cardiac services in the region.