The University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) in Cross River State has improved its clinical services and patient care through the introduction of advanced endoscopic procedures.

This development was announced by Professor Ikpeme Ikpeme, the Chief Medical Director of UCTH, during a press briefing in Calabar on Monday.

Professor Ikpeme highlighted that UCTH is now the second government-owned facility in Nigeria to implement these advanced procedures, following the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital.

The hospital's collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital is aimed at improving endoscopic practices not only in Cross River State but across Nigeria.

He explained the benefits of these advanced techniques, stating that previously, patients with pancreatic cancer required invasive surgeries for biopsies.

With the new technology, which utilizes a camera mounted on a fiber optic cable, doctors can perform biopsies with minimal invasiveness which not only enhances diagnostic capabilities for hepatopancreatic biliary diseases but also improves treatment outcomes.

The Chief Medical Director elaborated on the specifics of the partnership with Massachusetts General Hospital, emphasizing UCTH's commitment to providing affordable healthcare and fostering medical tourism.

He noted that staff training has been conducted both in the United States and locally, ensuring that expertise is built sustainably within the institution.

As part of this initiative, UCTH has successfully treated eight patients at no cost who would otherwise have needed to seek treatment abroad.