Dr. Bijukachhe evaluates patient after surgery.
GIH Notices:
The new National Trauma Centre (NTC) was dedicated in November 2014, but had not yet opened its doors when the 7.9 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on 25th April 2015.
The wards were flooded with earthquake victims and their families.
Dr. Giri and Dr. Chet plan a surgery
36 years old male earthquake victim from building collapse. Patient has complete spinal cord injury (SCI) classified ASIA A by the American Spinal Injury Association Classification. Lateral x-ray reveals compression flexion fracture of L1 with unstable dislocation T12-L1.
The team gently transfers the patient to the OR table.
Broken bones and legs in traction can't keep this Nepali boys smile away!
As the hospitals are flooded with a new wave of trauma victims, the operating theaters are ptoiritized for urgent crush injuries to head, chest, abdomen, and extremities. Spine surgeries are cancelled and delayed. NBC film crew from USA redeployed to document triage efforts and further devastation to buildings and monuments.
Bhaktapur, a world heritage site near Kathmandu sustains further destruction and traumatic injuries to earthquake victims.
Emergency teams search for survivors in Kathmandu.
NBC reporter, Katy Tur, arrives from London to cover the tragedy.
AP x-ray confirms fracture at T8 with no widening of pedicles indicating intact lamina.
SCI is incomplete.
Dr. Giri receives gift from SHI and Nu Vasive Spine Foundation……. a pedicle probe.
The OR nursing team appreciates the assistance given by SHI and Nu Vasive.
A dichotomy…. a beautiful day in May with blue skies and Lavender Jacaranda trees in bloom. But the Nepalese military grounds are filled the displaced Nepalis in tents donated by China whilst the drama of injury and surgery plays out of the NTC in the background.
The new NTC(National Trauma Centre)
The time has come to return to USA. Thanks to Binod and Sabina Bukachhe MDs (Orthopedic Spine and Ophthalmology) for providing lodging for me at their home.
And thank you to the Nu Vasive Spine Foundation for their generous donation of cervical and thoracolumbar implants and instruments on very short notice. The people of Nepal are grateful. Om Mane Padme Hum.
