A burr hole is a neurosurgical procedure involving the creation of a small hole in the skull to relieve pressure on the brain, often caused by trauma or hemorrhage. Typically, it is done to remove blood clots or accumulated fluid, reducing pressure on the brain and preventing further damage. This procedure requires meticulous planning and execution to avoid complications.

The notion of opening a human skull may seem straightforward, but witnessing it firsthand is a sobering experience that underscores the intricate complexity of this medical intervention. With each precise incision, FAME’s Dr. Mbilinyi threads through the intricate web of cerebral tissues with the utmost care.

Cutting through the five layers of cranial tissue, including the formidable skull, to access the brain membrane requires a level of expertise honed through tireless practice.

Since arriving at FAME, Dr. Mbilinyi has successfully performed 13 Burr Hole procedures. "In this profession, one must excel in both theoretical knowledge and practical application," Dr. Mbilinyi asserts with conviction. "There is no room for hesitation or doubt; one must be resolute in their decision-making." He adds, "We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of safety and accuracy, utilizing ultrasound, CT scans and X-rays to guide our approach."

Apart from Burr Holes, Dr. Mbilinyi also performs other operations including laparotomies - which involve opening the abdominal cavity, cholecystectomy - the removal of the gall bladder, gastrostomy, gynecological and obstetric surgeries, prostatectomy, vasectomy and thyroidectomy.

Upon his arrival at FAME four years ago, Dr. Mbilinyi found himself on a steep learning curve, gradually honing his skills under the supervision of FAME’s Head Doctor and General Surgeon, Dr. Emmanuel Manjira. "FAME created an environment conducive to growth, allowing new doctors to evolve into confident practitioners," shared Dr. Mbilinyi.

FAME's location in a rural community, where the local population is predominantly comprised of cattle herders and farmers, presents unique challenges. The geographical terrain is unforgiving, and head injuries are all too common, often necessitating burr hole procedures. "It is not uncommon for patients to require multiple procedures or revisions," Dr. Mbilinyi explains. "We have encountered cases where the skull has been severely fractured, requiring an extraordinary level of skill and expertise to repair. It is a testament to the skill and dedication of our team that we have been able to perform these procedures successfully, restoring lives and redefining hope for our patients."

At FAME, education is a cornerstone of our mission, as reflected in our strategic priorities and even our name. By empowering healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel, FAME is working tirelessly to ensure sustainable healthcare in rural Africa.

Here at FAME, when a case calls for a burr hole procedure or when a clinician wants to understand exactly how it’s done, there is one clear expert to turn to: “Mr. Burr Hole” himself, Dr. Emmanuel Mbilinyi.

For two months, Eli lived with persistent throat pain, making every swallow feel like a chore and every conversation a struggle. As days turned into weeks, he sought care from multiple physicians and tried several medications, but his symptoms did not improve. It wasn’t until a friend who works with one of FAME’s partners, the Rift Valley Children’s Village, encouraged him to visit FAME Hospital that Eli found the solution he had been seeking.

Upon arrival, Eli was struck by the efficiency of the services. He received a thorough evaluation that identified the cause of his ongoing pain. Given the severity of his symptoms and the lack of response to medication, the clinical team recommended surgery and scheduled the procedure promptly. As he prepared for surgery, Eli recalled the calm, focused demeanor of the medical team in the operating theater. “The worry that I had before the surgery vanished as I saw the team’s preparedness and expertise,” he said. The well-equipped facility and the team’s professionalism put him at ease.

The surgery was successful, and Eli’s recovery has been steady. “The pain is gone, and I can swallow food without difficulty,” he shared.

According to Dr. Manjira, FAME’s Head Doctor, tonsil conditions can affect both children and adults. “When medication is no longer effective, surgery becomes a viable option,” he explained. “At FAME, we regularly perform tonsillectomies, providing relief to patients like Eli.”

For Eli, the impact of treatment extended beyond his own health. As a father and primary provider for his family, his illness had limited his ability to work and created ongoing worry at home. Eli’s nephews visited him in the hospital the day after his surgery, a moment that reflected both relief and support. With his health restored, Eli is now focused on providing for his family once again.

At 64 years old, Mohammed recently underwent a successful surgical procedure at FAME; another milestone in a relationship that stretches back decades. He is not a newcomer to FAME hospital, but someone whose history with FAME began long before the campus existed, in the early days when Dr. Frank and the then much smaller FAME team would conduct mobile clinics in the community.

"I vividly recall when Dr. Frank embarked on his mission here," Mohammed recalled. "I've had the privilege of witnessing the mission evolve from these modest beginnings to the thriving hospital campus it is today," he added, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of admiration. For him, FAME's impact on the rural community in Northern Tanzania is simple and unmistakable: "To be honest, FAME has grown to become an indispensable health facility in our community."

What has stayed with Mohammed most over the years is not just that care is available at FAME, but how it is delivered. He spoke of treatment that feels within reach, of doctors, nurses and staff who lead with love and compassion and of a hospital that treats patients with dignity. He noted the care taken to follow patients closely, to provide medications on time and to offer counseling that supports not only physical healing, but also emotional well-being. The cleanliness of FAME hospital and its peaceful environment, he said, foster a sense of confidence and trust making FAME a place where patient-centered care is not just an idea, but a daily practice that truly supports patient recovery.

Before concluding, Mohammed offered his heartfelt thanks to “This hospital has become a beacon of hope for our community, and for many beyond it,” he said. He also expressed deep appreciation for the volunteers who have shared their time and expertise, noting that their presence reflects a spirit of service that patients feel and remember. Mentioning a recent neurology clinic led by Dr. Michael Rubenstein, Mohammed spoke with sincerity about the compassion that underpins FAME’s work. His gratitude was clear, not just for what FAME has built, but for the care and commitment that continue to define it.

Before he finished, Mohammed had one final thing to say. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Frank and Susan for the vision that brought FAME to Karatu. "This hospital has been a beacon of hope for our community and those beyond," he said. He also extended his appreciation to the volunteers who have dedicated their time and expertise to serving the community. "Their heart-driven mission is a testament to the power of compassion and kindness," Mohammed noted, specifically mentioning a recent neurology clinic led by Dr. Michael Rubenstein from the University of Pennsylvania. Mohammed's words were filled with sincerity and admiration, not just for what FAME has built, but for FAME's unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care to those in need.

Each morning at FAME begins with a purpose-driven routine that sets the tone for healing and hope. Our doctors, nurses and social workers move from bed to bed, embarking on morning rounds that are more than just a routine check-in: they are a symphony of care.

Morning rounds are not just clinical; they are where trust is built. Every interaction is a chance to listen, to comfort and to heal. From the gentle touch of a nurse's hand to the reassuring words of a doctor, every moment counts In a busy hospital, these moments create calm.

During this reflective time of year, we are grateful for the FAME team members who show up every day with skill, compassion and a deep commitment to their patients. It isn’t just about what they do, it’s about how they care.

Every year, mothers in our community face the uncertainty of early delivery from complications like premature rupture of membranes, gestational diabetes or pregnancy-induced hypertension. While many pregnancies reach full term, others take a more fragile path, reminding us just how critical high-quality newborn care is in rural Tanzania. 

One of these brave little fighters is Yohana. Born far too soon and weighing just under one kilogram (2lbs), his start to life was delicate, yet his tiny heartbeat proved louder than any doubt. Today, he has passed the one-kilogram milestone, a hopeful moment for him and his family and a reflection of the attentive, round-the-clock care he’s receiving at FAME. 

Thanks to generous support, FAME’s NICU is equipped with continuous monitoring systems, modern incubators, CPAP machines and phototherapy for jaundice, all supported by a dedicated team of nurses and doctors who continue to build their expertise through weekly education sessions and hands-on mentorship. 

On this World Prematurity Day we honor the tiny fighters, the families who stand beside them and the caregivers who make progress possible. Together, we can ensure that every preterm baby has a strong start toward a hopeful future.