After surviving deadly ordeal, Satrin will now undergo surgery in two weeks

By Faith Ronoh

Nairobi, Kenya: Baby Satrin Osinya who has a bullet lodged in his head following Sunday’s attack at a Likoni Church may have to wait for two weeks before a surgery to remove the bullet is carried out.

Neurosurgery specialists at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) where Satrin is now receiving treatment said the operation cannot be done immediately because his brain is still swollen.

The Head of neurosurgery at KNH Gichuru Mwangi said it would be risky to conduct a surgery immediately, adding that they must clean the wound and ensure that the swelling reduces within the shortest time possible.

“It will take a span of one to two weeks before we remove the bullet because his brain is still swollen and conducting an immediate surgery might come with serious side effects. Such effects range from visual impairment to epilepsy,” said Dr Mwangi, who spoke moments after examining the one and half-year-old boy who was airlifted to KNH by AmreF flying doctors Tuesday.

The neurosurgeon said they will have to seek consent from family members before they carry on with the surgery. Mwangi, however, gave baby Satrin a clean bill of health, saying his condition is stable and manageable.

“We have gone through his medical condition and it is clear that he is stable. The fact that he is conscious and active shows that we will manage his condition,” he said.

He explained that the bullet was lodged on the left side of his brain responsible for visual response but confirmed that his entire body system is functioning properly. Satrin held tightly to his father as the doctors were examining him.

Health Cabinet Secretary James Macharia, his Principal Secretary Fred Sigor, KNH Chief Executive Officer Lily Koros, officials from Amref and medical specialists were among those who received Satrin at KNH.

Macharia condemned the Saturday incident that left six people dead and 15 others injured, saying such an act should not be happening at such a time. He praised doctors and AMREF for working relentlessly to save the young life.

“Amref have been kind enough to airlift him to Nairobi for treatment while all the other specialists have also been dedicated to saving his life. This is really commendable, “ said Macharia.

The CS assured Satrin’s family of maximum support saying: “we have to support this family by all means possible. Cost should not be an issue.”

State House Digital Media Director Dennis Itumbi had also indicated that the Government would offer financial support towards the treatment of the boy.

Twelve neurosurgeons from KNH will work together towards saving Satrin’s life with doctors Mwangi, Samuel Njiru and Peter Wanyoike taking up the procedure first-hand.