HVHC's Dr. Koch Updates from Ghana

Dr. Koch, a board certified plastic surgeon with Institute for Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, in Ghana with the Health and Humanitarian Aid Foundation from May 4 to May 13 to do reconstructive surgery on children and adults. Read his updates here on Patch:

May 9, 2012

Have moved down to a coastal town called Elmina. Am planning more surgery. Went to the local hospital and performed outpatient clinic for tomorrow"s cases
Am planning cleft palate and an arm exploration on a woman attacked with a machete. Days are long, but this new location is great after being in the crowded city.
Best

May 6, 2012

Had another busy day. Performed more surgery on lip scar contractures. Spent the afternoon visiting a small coastal hospital to line up some cleft palate reconstructions.
Best

May 5, 2012

Arrived in Accra after an eleven hour flight from Atlanta. Chaotic airport, but fortunately we were met by the local armed forces who got us through customs without too much bother. Immediately went to the 37th Military Hospital to see patients. I met the local plastic surgeon, Dr. Kwame Abrokwaa-Yankyera, who has arranged some of the cases. So far it is a mix of adults and children, mostly burn scar releases and old traumatic wound revisions. On my first day in the OR I was able to use some of the supplies that were so kindly donated by HVHC. The operating rooms are clean and well maintained which makes a great difference, especially with the good lighting. Have some time off tomorrow afternoon, but in the AM I am going to help the Urologist perform some congenital reconstructions.
It's really hot here and there are enormous fruit bats flying around trying to eat our food (I resisted feeding them). My very best to everyone at HVHC.
Regards
Mike

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