This week, the Ifakara Health Institute hosted the 5th Course in Vascular Ultrasound and Vascular Surgery at St. Francis Regional Referral Hospital (SFRRH) in Ifakara, in partnership with St. Francis Hospital, Swiss TPH, and the University Hospital of Basel.

Held from January 26–30, 2026, the course brought together young clinicians and surgeons eager to advance their expertise their skills in vascular care. Similar trainings were previously conducted in 2024 and 2025, highlighting the ongoing effort to strengthen vascular care among young medics.

Organized by PD Dr. Martin Rohacek with support from Edgar Enzigard and Rehani Rehani of the Heart and Lung Clinic of Ifakara, the course featured esteemed facilitators, including Dr. Markus Aschwanden and PD Dr. Andrei Isaak from the University Hospital of Basel; Dr med Roland Stieger, from Zürich and Dr. Victor Myovela from SFRRH. 

Hands-on practical skills in surgical, patient care

The course focused on advancing both practical and theoretical knowledge in vascular ultrasound and surgery. Participants learned ultrasound techniques for daily clinical work, trained to performed ultrasound and Doppler examinations on arteries and veins, interpreted sonographic findings, and conducted venous mapping prior to vascular surgery, including creating arteriovenous (AV) fistulas for dialysis.

In addition, surgeons were trained in vascular access surgery, AV fistula care, and managing potential complications. The training combined lectures, hands-on sessions, and clinical case discussions, equipping participants to integrate clinical and imaging findings into accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.

Building local expertise for better outcomes

“This course is a key opportunity for clinicians and surgeons to enhance their competence in vascular diagnostics and surgery, which is critical for improving patient outcomes, particularly for those requiring dialysis,” said the facilitators.

Through collaborations with local and international partners, Ifakara Health Institute continues to strengthen the region’s capacity for advanced vascular care, ensuring clinicians are equipped to deliver high-quality, life-saving interventions.

Since 2017, regular courses in abdominal ultrasound, point of care ultrasound, echocardiography, and vascular ultrasound and vascular surgery have been conducted totaling to now, 21 courses today. From 2022 to 2024, a course in vascular ultrasound and vascular surgery has been offered once a year.