KNH to perform historic facial reconstruction on 7-year-old shooting victim

KNH/FILE

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is set to make medical history by performing its first craniofacial reconstruction surgery on a 7-year-old boy who suffered severe facial injuries after being shot.

The groundbreaking procedure is scheduled for September 25, 2025, as surgeons race against time to restore both function and appearance to the young patient.

The boy, identified as Ian Baraka, was injured when bandits shot him in the face in 2023, leaving him with a severely disfigured jaw and damage to his face.

Following the incident, Ian underwent emergency care at KNH, where the medical team managed to stabilise his condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) before initiating preliminary surgical interventions.

During a press briefing on Thursday, September 12, 2025, KNH Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon Dr Andrew Okiriamu provided details of the complex injuries.

Doctor Okiriamu explained that the bullet passed through the lower part of the boy’s face and exited through the anterior, causing injuries to his eyes as well.

He noted that the child has already undergone significant rehabilitation.

“We first stabilised him under the intensive care unit, took him to the theatre, and did some stabilisation of his lower jaw,” he said, though the upper jaw proved more challenging.

The medical team further explained that the upcoming craniofacial reconstruction is designed to address these challenges using patient-specific implants and prosthetics tailored to Ian’s unique needs.

These implants are engineered to expand as the child grows, allowing the jaw to develop naturally while promoting bone fusion in critical areas.

The surgery will also focus on restoring facial structure, function, and symmetry.

Senior Director for Medical Services at KNH, Joel Lessan, echoed the medical team’s commitment to Ian’s recovery.

“We are prepared to stay with this young man throughout his life, working to restore as much function as possible,” he said.

The procedure is expected to take several hours and will involve a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, anesthetists, and rehabilitation specialists.

Post-surgery, Ian will continue to receive comprehensive care to support recovery, rehabilitation, and long-term facial growth.