Plastic surgery-myths and realities in developing countries: experience from eastern Nepal

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Surgical Care in Developing Countries

Background:

• B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences is the sole tertiary care center in eastern Nepal.
• The need for and status of plastic surgery care in Nepal are discussed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment and initial experience of a plastic surgery unit in eastern Nepal.
• To evaluate patient demographics, procedures, and outcomes.
• To identify challenges and solutions for establishing plastic surgery centers in developing countries.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of patient data from July 2007 to February 2009.
• Evaluation of patient types, surgical procedures, and treatment outcomes.
• Assessment of limitations and potential solutions for establishing plastic surgical centers.

Main Results:

• A plastic surgery unit was initiated within general surgery by one surgeon and a rotating resident.
• A total of 848 patients were treated for various conditions, including 307 acute burn patients.
• Trauma (22%) and tumors (20%) were the most common conditions; aesthetic surgery comprised only 10.1%.

Conclusions:

• Plastic surgery in developing countries predominantly serves reconstructive purposes, with aesthetic procedures being a minor component.
• Plastic surgery units are crucial for addressing reconstructive needs and optimizing patient management in resource-limited settings.