Mumias Man Celebrates Successful Recovery After Life-Changing Spinal Surgery at Tophill Hospital

A 71-year-old resident of Mumias in Kakamega County is celebrating a remarkable recovery after undergoing a complex spinal fusion surgery at Tophill Hospital in Eldoret that restored his mobility and independence. Eli Jonah Muhammad Manza, popularly known as Eli Mwanza, underwent the delicate procedure on December 5, 2024, after months of debilitating lower back pain that had left him unable to walk properly, pass urine comfortably, or carry out basic daily activities.

Medical examinations, including an MRI scan conducted by neurosurgeon Dr. Florentius Koech, revealed severe spinal stenosis—a condition in which the spinal canal narrows, placing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Doctors recommended urgent surgery to relieve the pressure and stabilize his spine.

Life-Restoring Surgery

On December 5, 2024, Dr. Koech and his surgical team successfully performed a complex spinal decompression and fusion procedure using titanium pedicle screws and rods to stabilize the affected section of the spine. Nearly two years later, Mwanza has regained his independence. He now walks without assistance, climbs stairs comfortably, and has resumed his normal daily activities.

During a recent follow-up visit at Tophill Hospital, Mwanza described his recovery as a blessing made possible through faith, skilled medical care, and strict adherence to doctors' instructions. He recalled arriving at the hospital in excruciating pain and unable to walk, saying he is now able to care for himself and live a normal, productive life.

A Disciplined Recovery

Recovery required patience and discipline. Immediately after surgery, Mwanza was instructed to lie strictly on his side to protect the surgical wound and ensure proper healing. The incision had to remain dry, with nurses providing careful bed baths to prevent infection. After discharge, he rented accommodation in Eldoret for one month so he could remain close to the hospital. A nurse visited him daily to monitor the wound and ensure he avoided bending, lifting heavy objects, stretching excessively, or sitting for prolonged periods.

During recovery, he experienced pain around the gluteal muscles, which Dr. Koech explained was expected because the muscles had been carefully retracted during surgery to access the spine. The discomfort gradually subsided as healing progressed.

Doctor Commends Patient's Commitment

Dr. Florentius Koech praised Mwanza for faithfully following every post-operative instruction, describing his recovery as excellent. He noted that when Mwanza first arrived at the hospital, his quality of life had deteriorated significantly due to nerve compression. Despite his age, the medical team proceeded with surgery because it offered the best chance of restoring function.

According to Dr. Koech, the operation successfully relieved pressure on the spinal nerves, eliminated the pain, and restored Mwanza's mobility.

Advice to Other Patients

Drawing from his experience, Mwanza encouraged patients undergoing spinal surgery to strictly follow medical advice throughout the recovery period. He said patients should avoid prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, long-distance walking, driving during the early stages of recovery, and travelling on motorcycles over rough roads because sudden jolts could interfere with healing. He also emphasized the importance of attending all follow-up appointments to allow doctors to monitor the stability of the titanium implants and ensure proper recovery.

Affordable Treatment in Kenya

Mwanza said he was grateful to have received specialized treatment in Kenya, noting that the surgery would have cost several times more if performed abroad. He also appreciated the support of the Social Health Authority (SHA), which covered part of his hospital bill and helped reduce the financial burden on his family.

A Second Chance at Life

Looking back on his journey, Mwanza expressed gratitude to God, Dr. Koech, and the entire Tophill Hospital team for helping him regain his health and dignity. He thanked the doctors, nurses and support staff for their professionalism and compassionate care, describing the hospital as a place that gave him a second chance at life. Mwanza continues to attend routine follow-up clinics to monitor the stability of his spinal implants and overall recovery. Today, he returns home to Mumias with renewed strength, restored mobility and optimism for the future.