At Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, the Breast Unit continues to play a critical role in delivering high-volume, specialised breast care to thousands of patients each year. With the growing demand for surgical intervention, ensuring timely access to treatment remains one of the most important factors in improving patient outcomes and preventing disease progression.
In response to these challenges, a focused Breast Cancer Surgery Marathon was successfully conducted on 11 October 2025. The initiative was led and coordinated by Dr Vukosi Maluleke, a consultant general surgeon within the Breast Unit, working under the leadership of Professor Dikeledi Mokone.
This intensive surgical effort was designed to address waiting list pressures and accelerate access to critical procedures. On a single day, the team successfully performed 14 breast cancer surgeries—equivalent to approximately five to six weeks of scheduled operating time. This significantly reduced the backlog and enabled patients to receive timely, potentially life-saving care.
The success of the marathon was driven by a strong multidisciplinary collaboration. A dedicated team comprising surgeons, anaesthesiologists, and nursing staff worked seamlessly to ensure efficient and safe surgical delivery. The anaesthesiology team was led by Professor Hyla Kluyts, while theatre operations were expertly coordinated under the guidance of Phindile Mlangeni, ensuring optimal patient preparation and workflow across multiple operating theatres.
Support from the broader medical and academic community further strengthened the initiative. Contributions from Dr Mongezi Ntulini, Dr Nkosikhona Fredrick Mlimi, and Dr Thegesha Naidoo helped sustain staff throughout the demanding surgical schedule, reflecting the shared commitment to patient care.
The initiative also benefited from the leadership and guidance of Professor Zach Koto, whose role in coordinating surgical services contributed to the seamless execution of the programme.
Beyond the clinical outcomes, the surgery marathon highlighted the importance of innovation, planning, and teamwork in modern healthcare delivery. It demonstrated that, even within high-demand environments, strategic collaboration can significantly enhance efficiency without compromising the quality of care.
For patients, the impact was immediate and meaningful. Reduced waiting times alleviated anxiety and allowed for earlier intervention, which is critical in the management of breast cancer.
This initiative reflects the broader commitment of the Breast Unit—and clinicians such as Dr Maluleke—to patient-centred care, continuous improvement, and excellence in surgical practice. It stands as a model for how healthcare teams can come together to deliver impactful, timely interventions that truly make a difference in patients’ lives.