The partnership between the Pediatric Surgery Foundation (Stiftung Kinderchirurgie) and Hawassa University Hospital provides support for establishing a paediatric surgery unit.
Problems: The demand for paediatric surgery is extremely high in Ethiopia. A large percentage of under-five deaths is caused by medical conditions that require surgery. They include accidents and congenital deformities. Children who need surgery are generally operated on by general surgeons who are not familiar with the special requirements of paediatric surgery.
Main activities: The necessary foundations will be put in place for establishing a paediatric surgery unit. This includes producing guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and post-operative care for specific paediatric conditions requiring surgery, conducting model operations and producing teaching videos as well as assistance with procuring instruments needed in paediatric surgery.
Short-term results: The partnership is to put in place a framework for improved paediatric surgery.
Long-term results: The establishment of a paediatric surgery unit is to enhance the medical care available to children in the partner hospital.