Dr Manyilirah On Matters Of The Heart

Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon at Bokamoso Hospital, Dr Willlian Manyilirah talks to Sun Health about what it means to be a heart surgeon, why he does what he does, dangers of cardiovascular disease, and when people should see a doctor about heart problems.

Good day Dr Manyilirah, first thing first, bring us up to speed on what got you into medicine in the first place and what inspired your career into cardiovascular surgery?

I was inspired by my maternal uncle (RIP) who was a world-renowned professor of pathology. Additionally, my excellent performance in science subjects at O-level (Junior High School) and A-level examinations further encouraged me to go into medicine. However, I pursued a career in cardiovascular surgery because I thought the science of cardiovascular medicine was more intriguing and made more sense. During my A-levels, I would spend hours on end dissecting toads and frogs and would observe that their hearts kept beating on for several hours after their bodies were laid open. This captivated me immensely. During undergraduate medical training, as a general practitioner and later as a general surgeon, I performed quite complex surgical procedures, including neurosurgery. So, operating on the heart and blood vessels would be the ultimate challenge I yearned for.

On television, cardiovascular surgeons are typically portrayed as cutthroat, competitive and intense for example. Do you see that as a truth or a misleading stereotype?

I think it is more of stereotyping. Accomplished cardiovascular surgeons are gentle, calm and may be a lit laid back. Their work ethic is supposed to be an embodiment of ultimate teamwork. Lone players and the intense type do not last long in the profession. However, the typical cardiovascular surgeon in the modern world, works under a lot of pressure due to the increasingly intricate nature of a modern cardiovascular service delivery. This has led to constant burnt out with its attendant negative effects that make some of us look fierce and intense.

What are your main responsibilities in your current job?

I am a Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon for children and adults. I treat (majorly by performing complex procedures) the diseases of the heart, lungs, blood vessels and all other human chest structures. I perform a wide spectrum of major open heart surgery procedures, including repairing holes in children, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and replacement/repair of complex anyerysms in adults. I also participate in research and teaching of staff involved in the care of patients with cardiovascular and thoracic diseases.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I am usually out of bed by 5.00am, do some brief indoor exercises (composed of sit-ups and