Chongqing - A milestone in Papua New Guinea's medical history was achieved on October 13 when surgeons from Chongqing University Cancer Hospital successfully performed the country's first breast reconstruction surgery at Port Moresby General Hospital. 

The procedure marked a breakthrough in PNG's breast cancer treatment and highlighted deepening medical cooperation between China and the Pacific nation.

On October 13, a milestone was achieved: the first breast reconstruction surgery in PNG was successfully completed by the team of Professor Zeng Xiaohua, Director of the Breast Tumor Center at Chongqing University Cancer Hospital. (Photo/The Chongqing University Cancer Hospital)

Led by Professor Zeng Xiaohua, Director of the Breast Tumor Center of the Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, the Chinese team conducted a radical mastectomy with latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction on a 29-year-old patient, Molly Oaswoka, who had been diagnosed with mucinous carcinoma of the breast. The six-hour operation restored the patient's breast contour with minimal bleeding and excellent aesthetic results.

"This is a landmark case that demonstrates how modern surgical techniques can improve both survival and quality of life. It also shows the strength of our training collaboration and the potential for sustainable local oncology care," said Dr. Deng Yongchun, Deputy Chief Physician of the Breast Tumor Center and member of the 14th Chinese Medical Team in PNG.

Local surgeons observed and recorded the procedure for training purposes. "The technique, precision, and outcome were remarkable. We gained both technical skills and confidence to replicate such surgeries locally," said Dr. Stanley Konjil, a Port Moresby General Hospital surgeon who trained in Chongqing in 2024. 

The Chinese experts carried out 15 demonstration surgeries, including sentinel lymph node biopsies and ultrasound-guided tumor diagnostics during the nine-day visits.

Deepening bilateral cooperation

The surgical success was part of a broader nine-day medical mission from October 10 to 18, led by Professor Wang Ying, President of Chongqing University Cancer Hospital. The visit is a key initiative under the National Health Commission's counterpart hospital cooperation program, designed to strengthen long-term ties with Port Moresby General Hospital and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG).

At UPNG's School of Medicine and Health Sciences, both sides discussed medical education and specialist training. Dean Nakapi Tefuarani emphasized that cancers such as breast and oral cancer are major public health issues in PNG and expressed hope to adopt Chongqing's experience in early detection and multidisciplinary care.

Professor Wang highlighted the goal of "helping PNG build a sustainable, localized cancer treatment team rather than simply transferring technology."

Empowering local healthcare

Minister of Health Elias Kapavore praised China's longstanding support, thanking the Chongqing team for technical assistance and equipment donations. Hospital CEO Charles Paki Molumi described Chongqing University Cancer Hospital as "a vital partner in improving PNG's cancer care capacity" and pledged support for establishing a sister-hospital partnership.

The two institutions have agreed to expand cooperation through telepathology services, an international patient access channel, and training programs for oncology specialists.

Free clinics and academic exchange

Beyond surgery, the Chinese experts held public health clinics serving over 200 patients in Port Moresby, offering breast and thyroid cancer screenings, ultrasound exams, and consultations. They also conducted the "CBCS Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Guideline Overseas Lecture" at UPNG, attended by more than 60 medical professionals and students.

The Chinese experts held public health clinics serving over 200 patients in Port Moresby, offering breast and thyroid cancer screenings, ultrasound exams, and consultations.  (Photo/The Chongqing University Cancer Hospital)

Since the start of cooperation in 2024, seven PNG medical staff have trained in Chongqing, and a specialized breast clinic has been established in Port Moresby with Chinese-donated ultrasound and biopsy equipment. The clinic has served over 500 patients and trained the country's first group of breast disease specialists.

With plans to expand collaboration into cervical cancer, lymphoma, and head and neck oncology, the two sides are turning a moment of medical firsts into a sustainable partnership. 

As Professor Wang said, "This cooperation reflects the principle of teaching a man to fish—helping our partners build lasting capacity to save lives long after we leave."