Free Surgery for 50 Burned Children in Zambia

Summary

Interplast helps disabled Zambian children who suffer with severe burn injuries from kerosene lamps, kitchen fires, or acid-throwing. Free evaluations and surgery will restore mobility and hope.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

The W.H.O. reports that burns rank 9th among the leading causes of disease in children, 5- 14-years-old, with 96% of burn-related deaths occurring in developing countries. Household fires and kerosene lamps are the most common causes of such burns. In Zambia, AIDS has left many orphans, who are left to care for themselves and other children, making them more vulnerable to accidents. These children do not have access to emergency care, so their injuries create scar tissue that destroys functions.

How will this project solve this problem?

This center provides free surgeries and follow-up care year-round for poor patients with severe burns in and around Lusaka. It is run by a Zambian surgeon and supported by Interplast with funding, medical training, supplies, and quality review.

Potential Long Term Impact

This center is building a medical infrastructure for reconstructive surgery in Zambia where none existed before. It will help burn patients recover from injuries through surgery and physical therapy, and serve the community for generations to come.

Project Message

For a child who suffers from a disabling burn, reconstructive surgery gives her the freedom to walk again, to use her hands, or to move her head. It restores hope for a full and productive future.
- Dr. Goran Jovic, Director of Interplast’s Outreach Center in Zambia

Additional Documentation

This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Word file (projdoc.doc).

Resources