GPHC makes history with first caesarean delivery for patient with bleeding disorder

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has recorded a major medical breakthrough with the successful caesarean (c-section) delivery of an infant of a woman living with Haemophilia A, marking the first time such a procedure has been performed in Guyana on a patient diagnosed with a bleeding disorder.
Both mother and baby are reported to be doing well and were discharged in stable condition with a structured follow-up plan in place.

Haemophilia is a rare inherited condition that affects the body’s ability to clot blood, and poses serious, potentially life-threatening risks during surgery and childbirth. Medical officials said the patient’s condition placed her at high risk for severe bleeding, particularly during operative delivery.
Despite these challenges, the procedure was successfully completed through extensive pre-surgical planning, specialised treatment, and coordinated multidisciplinary care. Expected blood loss was minimal, and no blood transfusion was required.
The patient underwent a planned c-section following detailed antenatal assessments. A comprehensive bleeding management strategy was developed collaboratively by GPHC’s Haematology and Obstetrics teams. Special clotting factor medication was administered around the time of surgery, along with additional medications to reduce bleeding, while the patient was closely monitored before, during, and after delivery.
Hospital officials revealed that the patient initially presented with severe anaemia, with a haemoglobin level of 4.8 – significantly below the normal range of 12 to 16 for women. Further diagnostic testing and evaluation led to the eventual diagnosis of haemophilia A.

Medical professionals are urging members of the public to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as persistent anaemia, heavy or prolonged bleeding, or unexplained health concerns, noting that early diagnosis can be life-saving.
The successful outcome was credited to strong collaboration among multiple clinical teams. The Haematology team was led by Consultant Haematologist Dr Kamela Bemaul-Sukhu, with Senior Medical Officer Dr Jamal Shamsudeen coordinating ongoing care. Obstetric management was led by Consultant Obstetrician Dr Natasha France, supported surgically by Registrar Dr Shury, alongside anaesthesia, nursing, and laboratory teams.
Health officials noted that until recently, limited access to clotting factor treatment and the absence of structured care pathways would have made managing such a case extremely high risk. The procedure now reflects GPHC’s expanding capacity to treat complex medical conditions locally, reducing the need for overseas referrals and improving patient outcomes.