Burns Surgery in Nepal

With limited resources available, government services are focused on basic medical care.  Specialist surgical care is limited throughout the country, particularly outside Kathmandu.

Burn injuries are a major public health problem in Nepal.  Many families use open fires for cooking and heating. Nepal has the highest rate of mortality from burns worldwide with as many as 1,700 people dying from burns annually. Many more suffer lifelong disability and disfiguration.

The large number of burns have overwhelmed available services leaving many to endure lifelong pain and disability. If left untreated, major burn injuries can form contractures, where the scar tissue contracts to prevent normal movement and function.

The Open Heart International burns surgery project provides vital medical care to those who would otherwise go without. Based at the Scheer Memorial Adventist Hospital in Banepa, the project provides reconstructive surgery for burns victims, particularly treatment for disabling contractures.

With surgery, we can often dramatically improve function and the ability of our patients to lead a more active and independent life. Some patients are able to work again or help care for their family.

While treating burns victims is the primary goal of the project, the transfer of skills between doctors and nurses is equally valuable, empowering local clinicians to perform world-class corrective surgery and aftercare.