Makerere University Biomedical Engineering Unit has made two life-saving devices, a medical milestone. This invention is intended to ease access to health care, especially in resource-constrained settings-an assurance that the university contributes to solving global health challenges.
KeySuite, among the first of two innovations, is a developed, advanced laparoscopic system done at the beginning of this year to make keyhole surgeries more viable and accessible. Unlike traditional laparoscopic systems, many of which are expensive and involve multiple components, the KeySuite combines a camera, loop, and stand into a compact single unit. This keeps overall surgical costs way down, making such minimally invasive surgeries more feasible for poorly resourced health facilities. The potential impact of KeySuite could be great, where it may completely change the way surgeries are performed in resource-poor regions and save more lives.
The second device is LeVe CAP-a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine-that aims to help critically ill patients by taking care of respiratory issues. In many low-resource environments, ventilation is a scarce commodity; thus, the LeVe CAP provides that service when breathing becomes labored and requires support. This invention is particularly vital in the prolonged crusade against respiratory ailments, providing essential support to patients who would otherwise struggle to breathe. In the light of this invention, the LeVe CAP points to the commitment of Makerere University towards churning out pragmatic solutions that address the specific needs of poor-income settings.
These innovations by the Biomedical Engineering Unit go to prove that Makerere University is indeed a leader in medical research and may save thousands of lives, not only here in Uganda but also worldwide. The university contributes meaningfully to the global health landscape by focusing on unique challenges affecting healthcare systems in low-resource settings.
With the penetration of these devices in health facilities, they are likely to contribute much to improving patient outcomes and increasing access to essential medical care. The attempts by Makerere University to provide such state-of-the-art technologies strengthen its position as one of the key players in advancing the cause of medical science and applying it in practical life.
