Gynecological expert Shao Wenjing (R) from a Chinese medical team is pictured during a laparoscopic gynecological surgery at the Tupua Tamases Meaole (TTM) Hospital in Apia, capital of Samoa, Sept. 12, 2025. A Chinese medical team has made a significant breakthrough in Samoa by completing the country's first laparoscopic gynecological surgery at the Tupua Tamases Meaole (TTM) Hospital.(The 10th batch of the Chinese medical team to Samoa/Handout via Xinhua)

SUVA, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese medical team has made a significant breakthrough in Samoa by completing the country's first laparoscopic gynecological surgery at the Tupua Tamases Meaole (TTM) Hospital.

The patient, a 14-year-old girl, was suffering from a twisted left ovarian tumor.

According to gynecological expert Shao Wenjing from the medical team, traditional open surgeries involve significant trauma, high risks, and longer recovery periods.

Considering the patient's young age, Shao decided to perform laparoscopic surgery after thoroughly assessing her condition, aiming to minimize physical trauma as much as possible.

Despite the challenges of relatively outdated equipment and a shortage of surgical instruments at local hospitals, the medical team successfully completed the surgery in 1.5 hours.

The patient experienced minimal blood loss and had a good recovery, being discharged just two days after the operation, Shao said.

The 10th batch of China's medical aid team consists of 10 experts from the First Hospital of Jilin University, covering various fields including cardiology, ophthalmology, gynecology, otolaryngology, critical care, and traditional Chinese medicine.

Team leader Cong Xiaoqiang told Xinhua that since arriving in Samoa in June, the medical team has placed great importance on communication and cooperation with local medical staff. Through training courses, case discussions, and surgical teaching activities, they aim to enhance the local hospital's medical skills and bring health and hope to more patients. ■