Home | Dr. Naushad Karim

Image showing embolization of a giant hemangioma by Dr. Naushad Karim

Image showing uterine fibroid embolization by Dr. Naushad Karim

Image showing a CT guided biopsy carried out by Dr. Naushad Karim

ABOUT DR. NAUSHAD KARIM

About Us

Dr. Naushad Karim is a 6th generation Kenyan Interventional Radiologist with extensive training and experience in the field. He earned his MBChB from the University of Nairobi in 2009 and began his medical career as an intern at Busia District Hospital. He then served as a Medical Officer at Coast General and Provincial Hospital, followed by Aga Khan Hospital Mombasa.

Dr. Karim pursued advanced training in Radiology at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi, where he completed his Master’s degree in December 2016. From January 2017 to mid-2018, he served as the Acting Section Head for Interventional Radiology at the same institution.

He further enhanced his expertise by undertaking fellowships in Interventional Radiology at two renowned institutions: the University of British Columbia/Vancouver General Hospital in Vancouver, Canada, one of the world’s top-rated programs, and the Christie Hospital NHS Trust in Manchester, UK, Europe’s largest single-site cancer institute. During his fellowship in Manchester, Dr. Karim also obtained the UK Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR).

Dr. Karim has worked as an Assistant Professor and Consultant Interventional Radiologist at Aga Khan University Hospital in Kenya, where he pioneered procedures such as trans-arterial chemoembolization and varicocele embolization, and as a consultant Interventional Radiologist at Tweed Valley Hospital in Australia.

With a wealth of experience and expertise in his field, Dr. Karim is dedicated to advancing patient care through innovative interventional radiological procedures.

CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

Dr. Naushad Karim has contributed significantly to the academic and professional landscape through various presentations at high-profile conferences. His key presentations include:

“Challenges in Introducing Trans-Arterial Chemoembolization (TACE) at a Tertiary Hospital in Kenya” – KESIR-RADAID Annual Scientific Conference, 2024.
Supervision of Resident Presentation on “Oncological Imaging and the RECIST Criteria,” which won Best Resident Presentation at the Kenya Association of Radiology Annual Scientific Conference, 2024.
Supervision of Resident Presentation on “Trans-Arterial Chemoembolization” at the Kenya Association of Radiology Annual Scientific Conference, 2024.
“Vascular Closure Devices” – STEMI 2024 Conference.
“Retrieval of a Chemoport Catheter Fragment: A Case Report” – KESIR-RADAID Annual Scientific Conference, 2023.
“Management of Pseudoaneurysms” at the Cathlabs Complications Course, December 2021.
“The Distal Radial Approach in Interventional Radiology” at the Kenya Association of Radiology – RAD-AID International Interventional Radiology Symposium, 23-24th July 2020.
“Prevalence of Hepatic Steatosis as Diagnosed by CT KUB” at the Kenya Association of Radiology Annual Conference, 2017.

These presentations reflect Dr. Karim's commitment to advancing knowledge in interventional radiology and contributing to the ongoing development of medical practice in Kenya and internationally.

PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Naushad Karim has co-authored numerous impactful publications in the field of interventional radiology, with contributions to renowned journals and conferences. Key publications include:

Oh A, Karim N, Pitt A, Hodgetts S, Edwards DW, Mullan D, Laasch HU. EEG bispectral index sensor guidance improves accuracy and safety of procedural sedation. Clin Radiol. 2024 Dec;79(12):e1490-e1496. doi: 10.1016/j.crad.2024.08.033. Epub 2024 Sep 3. PMID: 39317529.
Oh A, Karim N, Pitt A, Hodgetts S, Royle G, Maxfield L, Laasch H. EEG (BIS) monitoring improves accuracy and safety of procedural sedation. ECIO 2022 Book of Abstracts. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 45(Suppl 1): 1–66 (2022).
Karim N, Wakahora I, Bika J, Muthee B, Ombati K, Mavuti J. Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome associated with bilateral clavicular and first rib pseudarthroses. East African Medical Journal Vol. 99 No. 11, November 2022.
Sokwalla, N.K., Sagoo, R., Moussa, A. et al. A modified two-step technique for the retrieval of a chemoport catheter fragment with inaccessible ends. CVIR Endovasc 5, 61 (2022).
Karim NH, Bell J, Mullan D, et al. Anomalous Branch of the Left Hepatic Artery With Pericardial, Diaphragmatic, Splenic and Gastric Supply During Selective Internal Radiotherapy (SIRT). Cureus 13(12): e20373. doi: 10.7759/cureus.20373.
Abdullahi, Mariam & Karim, Naushad & Samnakay, Saeed. A case of retroperitoneal fibrosis secondary to chronic periaortitis. 20190011. doi: 10.1259/bjrcr.20190011.
Mwania M, Karim N, Wambui S, Mohammedali S, Njau A. Plasma cell myeloma lytic lesions mimicking vanishing bone syndrome in a young patient. BJR Case Rep 2019; 5: 20190025.
Nganga E, Gitau S, Karim N. Atypical CT appearances of diffuse large B cell lymphoma in HIV patients; A case series Learning objectives. doi: 10.26044/ecr2019/C-2692.
Mariah O, Riffat A, Naushad K, Kevin O, Antony G, et al. Fibrosing mediastinitis with intracardiac Extension: A rare crippling ailment - Case Report. Open J Cardiol Heart Dis 3(1): OJCHD.000553.2019.
Karim NH, Adam R, Vinayak S. Prevalence of hepatic steatosis as diagnosed on unenhanced abdominal Computed tomography. East African Medical Journal Vol. 95 No. 8, August 2018.
Quadros DS, Karim N, Sattar FAA. Williams-Beuren syndrome: a rare presentation of aortic hypoplasia. East African Medical Journal Vol. 95 No. 8, August 2018.

These publications reflect Dr. Karim’s ongoing contributions to advancing knowledge in diagnostic imaging, procedural sedation, and interventional radiology, with a focus on both clinical practice and innovative techniques.

Our Services

SERVICES OFFERED

Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) or Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and pain caused by uterine fibroids and/or adenomyosis. The procedure involves making a small incision in the artery of the left wrist, through which a catheter (a thin tube) and guide wire are inserted to access the uterine arteries. Tiny particles are then injected into these arteries to block the blood flow to the fibroids, effectively reducing their size and alleviating symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.

The success rate for controlling heavy bleeding with UAE is comparable to that of surgery, offering a less invasive option with a shorter recovery time.

The procedure is performed under sedation administered by an anesthetist, ensuring the patient remains comfortable throughout.

After the procedure, the patient typically stays overnight in the hospital for observation and is usually discharged the following day.

This technique provides an effective solution for individuals seeking relief from fibroid-related symptoms without the need for more invasive surgery.

To date, I have successfully performed over 500 uterine artery embolizations in Canada, Australia and Kenya, achieving excellent results in relieving symptoms caused by uterine fibroids. If you are experiencing fibroid-related issues such as heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I am here to help and discuss how this minimally invasive procedure can provide relief.

Dr. Naushad Karim carrying out the first uterine fibroid embolization at Aga Khan Hospital Mombasa in August 2022

Dr. Naushad Karim carried out the first uterine artery embolization at Aga Khan Hospital Mombasa in November 2022

Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) is a minimally invasive technique used to treat tumors in the liver. This procedure involves delivering chemotherapy directly to the tumor site by embolizing the blood vessels supplying the tumor with beads that are soaked in a chemotherapy agent, such as doxorubicin.

Access for the procedure is typically achieved either through the groin or the left wrist, where a small catheter and wire are used to navigate and select the blood vessels feeding the tumor(s). Once the target vessels are identified, they are embolized using either bland beads (without chemotherapy) or drug-eluting beads that release chemotherapy directly to the tumor.

TACE is particularly effective for treating tumors such as hepatocellular carcinoma, metastatic liver tumors, and even benign lesions like liver hemangiomas. This targeted approach minimizes damage to healthy liver tissue while delivering potent treatment to the tumor, offering a highly effective alternative to more invasive surgical options.

I have undergone specialized training in performing procedures like Transarterial Hepatic emoembolization using either chemotherapy-eluting beads (DEBTACE) or radioactive beads (TARE or SIRT). These advanced techniques offer highly targeted treatment for liver tumors, improving patient outcomes. However, due to the high costs associated with TARE/SIRT, this option is not currently feasible in Kenya.

Despite this challenge, we are working towards introducing this service in the near future, with the goal of providing more comprehensive treatment options for patients with liver tumors. In the meantime, TACE with chemotherapy-eluting beads remains an effective and accessible alternative for many patients.

Image from slide presentation at Kenya Association of Radiologist 2024 annual scientific conference showing first DEBTACE

These images showcase the first case of Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) of a Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) using drug-eluting beads (Hepaspheres) in Kenya, a procedure carried out by Dr. Naushad Karim in August 2022. This milestone marks an important advancement in the availability of advanced interventional radiology treatments within the country, providing a cutting-edge solution for patients with liver cancer. The use of drug-eluting beads in this procedure allows for targeted delivery of chemotherapy directly to the tumor site, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue and improving treatment efficacy.

Varicocele embolization is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicoceles, a condition where blood flow from the testicles is impaired, leading to blood pooling. This condition is most commonly found on the left side and can cause dull, aching pain in the scrotum.

Additionally, the pooling of blood raises the temperature of the testicle, which negatively impacts sperm production and can be a significant cause of male infertility.

The procedure involves making a small puncture in a vein, either in the neck or right elbow, through which a small catheter (tube) and wire are inserted to access the abnormal vein. Once the affected vein is identified, it is embolized using coils (small metal particles), glue, sclerosant, or a combination of these agents to block the vein and restore normal blood flow.

Varicocele embolization is performed under local anesthesia as a day case procedure, meaning patients are awake throughout and typically discharged on the same day.

To date, I have successfully performed over 300 of these procedures in Canada, the UK, Kenya, and Australia, with excellent results in alleviating pain and improving fertility outcomes. If you are experiencing symptoms of varicoceles, feel free to reach out to discuss how this procedure may help.

Pre and post embolization Images of the first ever varicocele embolization carried out at the Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi by Dr. Naushad Karim in November 2024

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate gland becomes enlarged, leading to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and difficulty urinating.

The procedure involves accessing the arteries that supply blood to the prostate, either through the groin or left wrist. Using a small catheter (tube) and guide wire, the doctor carefully selects the prostate arteries and embolizes them with small particles. This blockage reduces blood flow to the prostate, causing it to shrink and alleviating symptoms.

PAE is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation, ensuring the patient remains comfortable. Most patients are able to go home the following day, making it a convenient and effective alternative to more invasive surgical options.

letter of appreciation for Dr. Naushad Karim

Gastrostomy tube insertion
IVC filter insertion and removal
Portal vein embolization
Angioplasty and stenting for peripheral vascular disease
Catheter directed thrombolysis for lower or upper limb DVT
Chemoport insertion
Other forms of vascular access such as dialysis catheter insertion, PICC lines etc
Varicose vein sclerotherapy
Venous and lymphatic malformations sclerotherapy
Nephrostomy tube insertion
Antegrade ureteric stenting
External biliary drain, internal external biliary drain, biliary stenting
Fallopian tube recanalization
Image guided drains and biopsies
Image guided pain management such as nerve root blocks, epidural blocks, facet joint injections, IMPAR nerve root blocks, celiac axis blocks

15

Years of Experience

10,000+

Successful Procedures

PROCEDURES CARRIED OUT SUCCESFULLY IN 5 COUNTRIES, 4 CONTINENTS

*KENYA*UGANDA*UNITED KINGDOM*CANADA*AUSTRALIA*

Success Stories

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

"A doctor friend referred me to Dr. Naushad. i was experiencing severe pain due to fibroids. Was surviving on painkillers to cope with the pain and to faction. After I talked with Dr. Naushad, i found him very professional and honoring his duty of care as a doctor. Before I could go see him at the hospital, he was responding to my text messages, at this time I was loosing my mind due to the pain but he was there for me even before meeting with me.

After I visited him, he explained to me the uterus fibroids embolization and how it is done and took me through the process. But he also told me we need to run some tests to see if I qualify for the UFE. thank God the scan proved that i qualify.

I was scared of doing surgery, and this procedure was what i needed because it did not require surgery. After the procedure, I experienced post embolization syndrome, which the doctor had explained beforehand, so i was aware. I only stayed at the hospital for a night, and the recovery time took less than 3 weeks, and i was able to return to work.

After the procedure, all my fibroids symptoms were gone, especially the pain. I am a happy person now i do not worry about it anymore. 1 year after I did an ultrasound and my gynaecologist confirmed that the number of fibroids has reduced even the size.

I will recommend uterus fibroids embolization any day. And Doctor Naushad is qualified to do this procedure. He understands it so well, and he undertakes his work with a high level of professionalism. He is so patient and understanding."

Damaris Kilaka

"With many thanks to Dr Karim, he was god send. He was referred to me by my gyna, to manage my fibroids through embolization. After 6 months of the UFE, I have seen significant improvements; the fibroids have reduced by 24% and all the symptoms I had before drastically improved almost in the first months. Dr Karim is very humble and has a way to explain UFE jargon in a simple language. He was just a WhatsApp away throughout my recovery period. Asante sana Daktari."

Judy M

"I had a Uterine Artery Embolization for symptomatic fibroids in December 2021, and I couldn’t have asked for a better surgeon. From the very beginning, Dr. Naushad Karim was attentive, kind, and truly invested in my well-being. He took the time to explain everything clearly, making sure I felt informed and comfortable. No matter the time of day, he was always available to address any concerns, which gave me great peace of mind. His skill and professionalism were evident throughout the entire process, and my recovery went smoothly thanks to his expertise. I’m incredibly grateful for his dedication and compassionate care."

Rebecca Kalume

"I am incredibly grateful to have been under the care of Dr. Naushad for the management of my giant hepatic hemangioma. From the very beginning, he demonstrated exceptional professionalism, kindness, and expertise.

1. Thorough and Compassionate Care:
From the get-go, Dr. Naushad took the time to explain the results of my CT scan in detail. He walked me through all the management options and patiently answered my many questions. His ability to make complex medical information easy to understand put me at ease and helped me feel confident in my treatment decisions.

2. Accessible and Supportive:
Throughout the process, Dr. Naushad was always accessible. Even if he couldn’t respond immediately, he made sure to get back to me as soon as possible, which gave me a sense of reassurance and support.

3. Expertise in the Procedure:
Dr. Naushad performed the embolization procedure with great skill. I was awake during the procedure, and he kept me informed every step of the way, explaining what he was doing and checking on how I was feeling. His calm and reassuring demeanor made the experience much more comfortable.

4. Positive Results:
I’ve had two follow-up reviews since the procedure, and I’m thrilled to share that my hemangioma has definitely started shrinking. This progress is a testament to Dr. Naushad’s expertise.

5. A Truly Caring Professional:
What sets Dr. Naushad apart is not just his deep medical knowledge but also his gentle, caring, and compassionate personality. He treats his patients with the utmost professionalism and kindness, making the entire experience as positive as possible.

I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Naushad to anyone seeking an interventional radiologist. He is a true expert in his field and a genuinely caring individual who goes above and beyond for his patients"

Ruth S.

"This is one Doctor who has been:

1.Available.Always answered my calls/sms whenever I was in need

2.very friendly when I was in pain

3.Financially very supportive.used to come up with an affordable package.

May God bless the work of your Hands and enlarge your territories"

Rose Ugi

"In three months time am happy to say that my periods have reduced significantly and they are getting back to normal. My abdomen and bloating has reduced too. My pressure too is getting back to normal. Thank you."

Jacqueline

"I have suffered from Varicocele for several years, my condition presented multiple problems at the same time. Pain and pressure at the scrotum, discomfort and constant stress, infertility and family pressure due to challenges in getting children. it's a silent torture from inside to say the least.

being a man, this is not one of the conditions you rush to share with friends for help , you are not sure how they will react. therefore it took a long time to have it diagnosed.

I was searching on Google guided by the symptoms what it could be and by chance got to an article which indicated the symptoms coincided with Varicocele.

I also searched treatment of Varicocele and I realized either a urologist could treat it by surgery or an interventional radiologist could do it through a non-surgical procedure which was equally effective.

I first visited a urologist in Agha Khan hospital who ran several hormone & infection tests as well as a scrotal ultrasound which confirmed the condition to be Bilateral Varicocele and booked me for surgery.

On the surgery day I did not show up because I was not very comfortable with the kind of surgery.

I kept doing online research and one article mentioned that Varicocele Embolization was the safest procedure and has proven very successful with over 90% success rate scientifically .

I opted for embolization, and I booked to see Dr. Naushad at Agha Khan hospital Nairobi. I had gone through his profile and felt confident that he is the right man for the job. once I entered the consultation room he took my history and told me that it's the best procedure given my situation and that he can handle it as an outpatient procedure.

Dr. Naushad a very polite doctor, calm and confident inspires a High level of confidence from the very first time you meet him. He went forth and booked me for the procedure and guided me on the preparations and expectations, the do's and don'ts.

On 24th Dec 2024 he performed the procedure in about 1 and half hours (all through I was awake) and he kept updating me that it's progressing pretty well. At 2.45pm the procedure was successfully completed(Embolization using coils).

I felts a total change immediately after the procedure until now.

I went for a follow-up ultrasound scan and it confirmed that the procedure was successful.

The adverse effects of Varicocele are already reversing just one month down the line.

I would not hesitate to recommend any patience who needs interventional radiology services to Dr. Naushad."

Steve

"Dr. Karim recently performed the placement of a Chemo Port for my father. He demonstrated exceptional skill & professionalism throughout the procedure. Dr. Karim showed genuine care and attentiveness, taking the time to explain the procedure and address any concerns with clarity even after the procedure was done. Overall, the experience was excellent for both my father and his caretakers."

K. Alnoor

GET IN TOUCH

Visit Me

I see my patients exclusively at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi in the Radiology department and do not have fixed clinic days. I am available to see patients at times that are most convenient for them. To book an appointment, please feel free to contact me at +254723750765. If I am unable to answer your call, I may be in a procedure, but kindly send me a text or WhatsApp message, and I will respond as soon as I can.

Opening Hours

I am here to serve you from Monday to Friday, 8AM to 5PM. In case of any emergencies out of hours, please do not hesitate to call me.

I can be reached on:

Mobile: +254723750765

email: naushadkarim@gmail.com

PLANNED ABSENCES:

1ST JAN 2025 - 30TH JUNE 2025

During this time I will be out of the country and not able to receive your calls. I will still be available to communicate on Whatsapp and we can plan for your treatment when I am back.

NAIROBI INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY SERVICES