POMGEN PERFORMS FIRST OPEN-HEART SURGERY

PORT Moresby General Hospital has marked a major medical milestone in delivering a successful open heart surgery on a female patient earlier this week, (Monday 02nd of March).

Ms. Priscilla Alembo, 46, from Tari in Hela Province, received a life-saving mitral valve replacement on Monday, March 2nd.

The surgery was carried out by a visiting team from the National Heart Centre Singapore under SingHealth, in partnership with PMGH’s local heart specialists.

Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Noah Tapaua said the operation involved replacing a severely diseased mitral valve and was part of a group of eight patients selected after careful screening.

PMGH CEO Dr. Paki Molumi commended the partnership, highlighting the investment in training local cardiac specialists and the ongoing support from the Operation Open Heart Foundation.

The surgery was supported by a full medical team, including anesthesiologists, nurses, and ICU staff, ensuring the success of this landmark procedure.

This milestone is part of SingHealth’s ongoing medical missions to PNG, with this being the third visit and the second since the program’s revival in 2025.