Surviving the Big One: Turkish Neurosurgical Society's Innovative Disaster Management Model for Istanbul Earthquake

The Turkish Neurosurgical Society (TNS) played a pivotal role in providing critical medical support during the Kahramanmaraş earthquake. Recognizing the urgent need for neurosurgeons, our team collaborated with various institutions to address material shortages and meet medical requirements. However, this experience underscored the necessity of having a comprehensive disaster organization model and a well-defined disaster management plan. TNS should pioneer the creation of a dedicated trauma group to ensure coordination among neurosurgeons in future disasters. Minimize confusion during critical moments, the trauma group will have a regional structure, with smaller subagencies assigned distinct roles and responsibilities. Standardized triage and patient management practices, as defined in the created guidelines, will ensure consistency in trauma response across the board. The wealth of knowledge gained from field experiences will be shared through these guidelines, providing valuable insights for future generations. By proactively establishing a trauma group within the TNS and developing a robust disaster management plan, we aim to strengthen our resilience and enhance the overall effectiveness of neurosurgical response during emergencies. Together, we can pave the way for a more coordinated and efficient approach to disaster relief, ensuring that best neurosurgical care for those in the face of catastrophic events. The establishment of a dedicated trauma group within TNS represents a significant leap forward in enhancing our preparedness and response capabilities during disasters. The invaluable lessons learned in the Kahramanmaraş earthquake have underscored the critical importance of a well-organized and coordinated approach to neurosurgical intervention in times of crisis. The implementation of standardized triage and patient management practices, as outlined in comprehensive guidelines, will further ensure a consistent and effective trauma response across various disaster scenarios.