Dr. Mark Greyson from the University of Colorado trained plastic surgeons in Tanzania, focusing on advanced surgical techniques and providing necessary equipment. The initiative, sponsored by the American Association for Hand Surgery, aims to enhance surgical capabilities in the region, addressing critical healthcare gaps.
Dr. Mark Greyson, an assistant professor at the University of Colorado’s Department of Surgery, recently visited the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre in Tanzania to provide training on advanced plastic surgery techniques. This initiative, funded by a grant from the American Association for Hand Surgery, focused on enhancing the skills of local surgeons in performing complex procedures.
Dr. Greyson, who specializes in reconstructive surgery following extensive trauma, was accompanied by Dr. Caleb Barnhill, the chief resident in plastic surgery. Their objective was twofold: to educate Tanzanian surgeons and to deliver essential medical equipment that would aid in performing surgeries more effectively.
Recognizing a significant gap in the region regarding the treatment of complex fractures with open wounds, Dr. Greyson stated, “There’s hardly anyone in Tanzania, certainly in the region that we were in, who is able to take care of people with complex fractures with associated open wounds.” This trip emphasized the importance of microsurgery, which is commonly practiced in Colorado but rarely performed in Tanzania.
The visiting surgeons set up cadaver labs to train local residents, including a chief resident eager to master microsurgical techniques. They also provided critical equipment, such as Doppler probes, to assess blood flow and locate blood vessels vital for reconstructive procedures. Dr. Greyson elaborated, “We use the Dopplers to find blood vessels that would support the creation of flaps to help cover wounds.”
Dr. Greyson has identified ongoing needs for training and equipment in Tanzania and aims to collaborate with other institutions to address these gaps. He envisions making this trip an annual affair, enhancing the experience of residents in international surgery and integrating with the global surgery program within his department. He remarked, “I hope that visiting Tanzania regularly is going to inspire them to do more surgeries and help them do the right thing for their patients.”
In conclusion, Dr. Mark Greyson’s training efforts in Tanzania represent a crucial step towards improving surgical practices in underserved areas. By delivering essential training and medical equipment, he is enhancing local surgeons’ capabilities and fostering international collaboration. His commitment to returning annually underscores the potential for lasting impact on the healthcare landscape in Tanzania.
Original Source: news.cuanschutz.edu
