When you or a family member requires an operation, the quality of the surgical care and the expertise of the team are the most important factors for a successful outcome. At Kabarole Hospital C.O.U, our General Surgery department has been a trusted provider of life-saving interventions in Fort Portal for over 120 years. Established in 1903, Kabarole Hospital is Uganda’s second-oldest missionary hospital, and we continue to fulfill our mission of “Improving life and promoting health in spirit, body, and soul.”
As a leading general surgery hospital in the Rwenzori region, we combine a rich historical legacy of missionary medicine with modern clinical standards. Our goal is to ensure that every patientespecially the “disadvantaged and less privileged” receives high-quality, compassionate surgical intervention when they need it most.
What is General Surgery?
General surgery is a versatile medical specialty that focuses on the contents of the abdomen, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and thyroid gland. It also involves the treatment of skin, soft tissue, hernias, and traumatic injuries.
At Kabarole Hospital, our general surgeons are highly trained to manage a wide spectrum of diseases. Whether you are coming in for a planned (elective) procedure or an urgent emergency, our team is equipped to provide the precise care necessary for your recovery.
Our Comprehensive Surgical Services
KCH offers both major and minor surgical procedures as part of our core clinical programs. We focus on the most prevalent health conditions in Western Uganda, ensuring that specialized care remains accessible locally.
1. Abdominal and Gastrointestinal Surgery
Our surgeons specialize in treating conditions of the digestive tract and abdominal organs. Common procedures include:
- Appendectomy: Immediate surgical intervention for acute appendicitis.
- Hernia Repairs: Specialized management of inguinal, umbilical, and incisional hernias, which are among the most common surgical needs in the region.
- Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy): Treating stones and inflammation to restore health.
- Laparotomy: Exploratory surgery for complex abdominal conditions and intestinal obstructions.
2. Minor Surgery and Soft Tissue Procedures
For conditions that do not require an extensive stay, our minor surgery clinic provides:
- Mass and Tumor Removal: Safe excision of cysts, lipomas, and other soft tissue growths.
- Wound Care and Debridement: Specialized management for chronic wounds or injuries to promote rapid healing.
- Hydrocelectomies and Proctology: Effective treatment for common conditions like hemorrhoids and hydroceles.
3. Emergency and Trauma Surgery
Kabarole Hospital C.O.U is a critical referral point for trauma in Fort Portal. We emphasize “Primary surgery in trauma,” providing immediate theater intervention for bone fractures, abscesses, and life-threatening injuries resulting from accidents.
4. Obstetric and Gynecological Surgery
Our surgical excellence extends to maternal health. We perform essential life-saving procedures, including Cesarean sections and hysterectomies. Our commitment to quality improvement in this area helped Kabarole Hospital achieve a historic 75% reduction in maternal mortality.
Expertise, Technology, and Modern Facilities
Choosing a hospital means trusting the skills and the technology behind the treatment. Kabarole Hospital is committed to clinical excellence through continuous infrastructure development and staff training.
Our Expert Surgical Team
The surgical department is led by our Medical Director, Dr. Edward Mugisha, supported by experienced medical surgeons and Medical Officers.. Our team follows a multidisciplinary approach, working closely with anesthesia officers and dedicated nursing staff to ensure patient safety at every stage.
Modern Theater and 2025 Upgrades
Our operating theater is designed to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and safety. To prevent Surgical Site Infections (SSIs), we strictly adhere to the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist and conduct regular training on aseptic techniques.
In 2025, our surgical capacity was significantly enhanced through the expansion of a secondary operating theatre dedicated to orthopedic patients, in response to the increasing patient load. The upgrade included the installation of modern theatre beds and state-of-the-art surgical equipment, new high-performance theatre lights to improve precision during procedures, and advanced anaesthetic machines with comprehensive monitoring units to ensure optimal patient safety during general anesthesia.
Why Choose Kabarole Hospital C.O.U for Surgical Care?
- A Century of Trust: Since 1906, when Dr. Ashton Bond was already performing numerous operations, Kabarole Hospital has been the surgical home for the Tooro Kingdom.
- Affordable PNFP Model: As a Private Not For Profit facility, we work with government NGO grants and partners like the Uganda Protestant Medical Bureau (UPMB) to keep our user fees manageable.
- Holistic Healing: Our Chaplaincy department is integrated into our care model, providing spiritual and emotional support to patients and their families during the surgical journey.
- Safety First: Our evidence-based protocols and focus on “Continuous Quality Improvement” ensure that your safety is our top priority.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let a surgical condition impact your quality of life. The expert general surgeons and medical team at Kabarole Hospital C.O.U are here to provide the professional surgical care you deserve.
From routine minor procedures to complex emergency operations, we are your partners in health for spirit, body, and soul.
Visit us on Kabarole Hill or contact our administration to book an appointment.
Contact Information: 📍 Kabarole Hill, Fort Portal City 📧 info@kabarolehospital.org 📞 +256 393 197561
Healing in Spirit, Body, and Soul.
