Afghanistan’s 1st functional neurosurgery brings hope, relief for patients

In a landmark achievement for Afghanistan’s medical community, a neurosurgeon at Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Kabul performed the country’s first functional brain and nerve surgery.

The operation represents a major milestone, offering new hope for expanding specialized medical treatment within Afghanistan’s public healthcare system.

The patient, Sabrullah, had suffered years of severe and persistent pain caused by a debilitating nerve injury affecting his daily life.

Three years ago, a bullet that struck beneath his arm left more than a physical wound, causing constant and unbearable pain in his finger.

The complex surgery targeted specific pain pathways within the spinal cord, aiming to relieve suffering that had resisted previous medical interventions.

The procedure was led by Dr. Najibullah Sekandar, whose expertise and determination made the groundbreaking operation possible inside the country.

His search for treatment forced him to travel abroad, yet those efforts ended unsuccessfully, leaving him to return home without relief.

Community support

Throughout this prolonged ordeal, Sabrullah was supported by close friend Amir Mohammad, who remained involved at every critical stage.

Their shared struggle reflected the importance of community solidarity when formal healthcare options remain limited or financially inaccessible.

"We raised 80,000 Afghanis (over $1,200) from public donations," TOLOnews quoted Mohammad as saying.

"We took him to other doctors, but it didn’t help. He was bedridden at home. Finally, I had no choice but to bring him to this doctor."

The fundraising effort demonstrated how ordinary citizens mobilized resources to help one individual access specialized medical care.

That collective effort ultimately enabled Sabrullah to reach a surgeon capable of addressing his condition within Afghanistan itself.

The emotional and financial burden endured by both men highlights the challenges many Afghan patients face when seeking advanced treatment.

A milestone for Afghan medicine

Dr. Sakandar further distinguished himself by transferring specialized equipment from a private hospital to a public facility.

This decision ensured Sabrullah could receive treatment free of charge, despite the complexity and cost of the procedure.

"This is the first functional neurosurgery procedure ever performed in Afghanistan," he told TOLOnews.

"Even in many countries in the region, this surgery hasn’t been carried out yet. Advanced countries are working on it, and it accounts for about 10% of neurological surgeries."

Medical professionals describe the successful operation as clear evidence of Afghanistan’s growing domestic expertise in specialized healthcare fields.

They emphasized that continued support for medical professionals and investment in advanced technology can further strengthen national treatment capacity.

The surgery stands as more than the end of one patient’s suffering, symbolizing resilience, progress, and emerging self-reliance in Afghan medicine.

It reflects a future where healing increasingly occurs within national borders, supported by skilled professionals and committed communities alike.