THE International Federation of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IFSBH) has issued an urgent appeal to build a dedicated treatment centre at Mpilo Cenral Hospital in Bulawayo for new-borns with congenital hydrocephalus, a brain disorder.
Congenital hydrocephalus ioccurs when a baby is born with excess fluid in their brain.
It can be caused by a condition such as spina bifuda or an infection the mother develops during pregnancy.
Children born with hydrocephalus from the southern part of the country are referred to Mpilo for treatment, the only referral centre in the region with a neurosurgeon qualified to perform the procedure.
In an interview with Southern Eye, IFSBH director, Lunn Ndlovu, said they were appealing for funds to construct a centre for newborns with brain disorders.
“We have also received a donation of 125 shunts from Matabeleland Nomads and 20 central drainers,” Ndlovu said.
“Mpilo Hospital used to have a shortage of shunts which has become a thing of the past.
“We are trying to fundraise for the dedicated treatment centre, and our budget stands at US$85 000.”
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Shunt procedures are vital in relieving pressure on the brain caused by hydrocephalus.
Many babies born with hydrocephalus have permanent brain damage.
This can cause several long-term complications, such as speech problems, memory problems among others.
