Q: Dr Chowdhry, what makes this initiative in Rwanda so significant?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
This initiative represents a major milestone for minimally invasive vascular and anorectal care in Rwanda. For the first time, Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLA) for varicose veins and modern laser procedures for haemorrhoids and anorectal conditions are now available within the country.
Previously, many patients had to travel abroad for such advanced treatments, which created financial and logistical challenges. Introducing these procedures locally not only improves access but also strengthens Rwanda’s surgical capabilities in a sustainable way.
Q: Can you explain what Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLA) is and how it differs from traditional surgery?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
Certainly. Varicose veins are a common yet often debilitating condition. Traditional surgery involves vein stripping, which requires larger incisions, general anaesthesia in many cases, and longer recovery periods.
EVLA, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure. It uses laser energy to seal diseased veins from within. It is performed under local anaesthesia, significantly reducing surgical trauma, post-operative pain, and hospital stay. Recovery is much faster, and patient outcomes are excellent.
Q: You also introduced laser treatment for haemorrhoids. How is this different from conventional treatment?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen vascular cushions in the anal canal that can cause bleeding, pain, itching, and discomfort. Conventional surgery can involve considerable post-operative pain and longer healing time.
Laser treatment for haemorrhoids is minimally invasive. It reduces tissue damage, minimises bleeding, and allows patients to resume daily activities much sooner. This modern approach significantly improves patient comfort and recovery.
We also introduced laser techniques for other anorectal disorders, including fissures and piles, expanding Rwanda’s advanced proctology capabilities.
Q: Who were the key collaborators in Rwanda during this initiative?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
At King Faisal Hospital, the initiative was a collaborative effort. Dr Clement, a vascular surgeon at the hospital, highlighted how transformative this step is for Rwanda’s vascular and anorectal care.
Additionally, Dr Brehan and Dr Fidel were actively involved in laser treatment for piles and fissures. They participated in patient assessment, procedural execution, and post-operative care. Their engagement ensured that this was not just a demonstration but a true transfer of skills and expertise.
Q: Was this purely a surgical mission, or was training also involved?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
Training was central to the mission. Surgical outreach must go beyond performing cases. The real achievement lies in empowering local systems.
I worked closely with the Rwandan surgical team on patient selection, procedural planning, laser techniques, safety protocols, and post-operative management. The goal was clear — to ensure they could independently continue offering these procedures.
Within days, Rwandan doctors successfully performed additional laser procedures themselves, with highly satisfactory early outcomes. One minor post-operative event was managed conservatively without complication, which reinforced the team’s preparedness.
Medicine progresses when knowledge crosses borders. Our responsibility as surgeons is not only to treat patients but also to build systems that continue delivering advanced care long after we leave.
Q: How does this collaboration reflect broader global healthcare trends?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
Modern international healthcare partnerships are shifting from temporary interventions to sustainable capacity building.
India has developed strong expertise in high-volume minimally invasive and laser surgery. Sharing this knowledge globally helps build resilient healthcare systems. This collaboration reflects a model where skills, not just services, are transferred.
Q: What immediate impact will this have on patients in Rwanda?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
The introduction of EVLA and laser anorectal procedures is expected to:
- Improve access to modern vascular and anorectal treatment
- Reduce the need for patients to travel abroad
- Lower overall healthcare costs for families
- Strengthen local surgical infrastructure
- Enhance confidence within Rwanda’s vascular and proctology ecosystem
For patients, the benefits are immediate — shorter recovery times, minimal scarring, reduced discomfort, and advanced care closer to home.
For the healthcare system, this marks a step toward greater self-reliance and modernisation.
Q: Can you tell us about your background and ongoing work?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
I am a Mumbai-based Laparoscopic and Laser Surgeon with extensive expertise in minimally invasive, vascular, and anorectal procedures.
Currently, I serve as:
- Vice President, International Society of Coloproctology
- Medical Director, Sigma Superspeciality Hospital, Mulund West, Mumbai
- Medical Director, Ruby Hospital, Bhandup West, Mumbai
- Visiting Consultant, Fortis Hospital, Mulund West
- Visiting Consultant, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chembur
My work focuses on advanced laser procedures and structured surgical education initiatives, both in India and internationally.
Q: What message would you like to leave for the global medical community?
Dr Jiten Chowdhry:
Surgical innovation should never be confined by geography. When expertise is shared responsibly, healthcare systems evolve sustainably.
The future of medicine lies in collaboration, knowledge transfer, and empowering local teams. That is how we truly create lasting impact.
