PPH performs first Congenital Surgery

Paradise Private Hospital (PPH) is pleased to announce the successful completion of its first congenital surgical procedure, marking a significant milestone in the hospital’s commitment to advancing specialist healthcare services in Papua New Guinea.

On Thursday, April 2, 2026, on the eve of the Easter weekend, PPH’s multidisciplinary team performed a complex operation on an 8-year-old boy diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s Disease without a stoma.

Hirschsprung’s Disease is a condition some children are born with, where a part of the bowel lacks the nerves needed to move stool along. Because of this, waste cannot pass through properly and becomes stuck, leading to severe constipation or blockage.

The procedure, a Transanal Endorectal Pull-Through (TERPT), a single-stage corrective surgery, was successfully carried out over six (6) hours, from midday to 6:00 pm.

The surgery was led by Dr. James Kennedy, Senior Surgeon & Paediatric Surgeon, who is currently the only known surgeon in the Pacific region performing this procedure as a single-stage operation, eliminating the need for a stoma and multiple surgeries.

Currently, patient, little Shamma Seni is recovering well in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and is on a positive path toward a healthier, complication-free life. The timing of this life-changing procedure, just before Easter, makes the outcome especially meaningful for both the patient and his family.

Dr. Polapoi Chalau, Chief Executive Officer, said:This complex operation underscores our unwavering commitment to advancing PPH to proving high quality and affordable specialized health care to our children on shore than going overseas.

Director Finance/Co-Owner Mrs Janet Sios said:Paradise Private Hospital continues to focus on strengthening its systems and enhancing the way care is delivered. At the same time, we remain committed to elevating our services to a tertiary level of care. Our goal is to reduce the need for overseas referrals by ensuring that high-quality, advanced care is accessible right here at Paradise Private Hospital.

This milestone is the result of a collective effort across all departments of the hospital, including: Radiology, Paediatric and Medical teams, General Ward, Day Care, and Outpatient teams, Operating Theatre and Nursing teams  and the Intensive Care Unit team.

PPH management and clinical team extends its sincere appreciation to little Shamma’s parents for their trust and confidence in the care provided.

The hospital also acknowledges the leadership and vision of Chairman/Co-owner Dr. Robin Sios, Mrs. Janet Sios, Dr. Polapoi Chalau, Director of Medical Services Dr. Erica Opu, and the wider management team.

This achievement represents a significant step forward for PPH and reinforces its role in delivering high-quality healthcare services within Papua New Guinea.