Plastic and hand surgery mission in Uganda: Reconstructive surgery in Kisoro
April 11 to 18, 2025, Kisoro, Uganda
In Uganda, several breast reconstructions after breast cancer and numerous burn contractures and malformations of the hand in children were operated on in order to sustainably improve the functionality and quality of life of those affected. The nine-strong Swiss medical team performed 25 operations.
Composition and equipment of the team
The interdisciplinary team consisted of two plastic surgeons, a hand surgeon, an assistant, an anesthesiologist, a nurse anesthetist, two technical surgical assistants and a nurse. The medical equipment was transported in 15 suitcases and enabled complex reconstructive procedures to be carried out on site.
Operational focus
The range of treatments included various reconstructive procedures:
- Correction of burn contractures on hands and fingers
- Surgical treatment of congenital hand malformations
- Tendon transplants to restore the ability to grip
- Removal of extensive kelloids
- Complex breast reconstructive surgery
Operating results
In one week, 35 hours of operating time and 57 hours of anesthesia time were performed. Despite challenging working conditions such as occasional power outages and limited sterilization capacity, two operating theatres could be operated in parallel.
The collaboration with the local doctors Dr. Manzi and Dr. Bosco proved to be extremely effective. All 25 planned operations were carried out successfully.
Medical challenges
The local infrastructure placed particular demands on surgical planning. Limited lighting conditions, irregular power supply and reduced sterilization capacities required adjustments to the usual work processes.
The need to adapt surgical procedures to the local conditions was particularly evident when treating a 90-year-old patient.
Sustainability and future prospects
This mission impressively demonstrates how plastic surgery changes lives and creates new perspectives. The potential for expanding breast reconstruction and other hand surgery missions in the region is considerable. The willingness to collaborate with local medical professionals and continue to care for our patients on site provides a solid foundation for future missions.
The ongoing work in Kisoro is to be continued in order to support the development of local expertise and to treat more patients in the long term.
Supporting the mission
Reconstructive surgery in developing countries is dependent on donations. Information on how to support the work of Interplast Switzerland is available on the organization’s homepage. Every contribution makes it possible to carry out further life-changing operations.