Free reconstructive surgery camp set for Bukoba
KAGERA: RESIDENTS living with birth defects, burn injuries and other deformities will receive free specialised treatment during a five-day plastic and reconstructive surgery camp scheduled for December 7-11 at Bukoba Regional Referral Hospital (BRRH).
The outreach programme will be conducted jointly by specialists from BRRH and Jirani Plastic Foundation, bringing advanced surgical services closer to patients who would otherwise struggle to access specialised care. BRRH Media and Communication Officer Mr Titus Theotikus urged families to register early, especially parents with children born with deformities.
“We encourage residents suffering from various deformities to seize this opportunity,” Mr Theotikus said.
The camp will provide reconstructive procedures for patients with cleft lip and palate, severe burn injuries, hand deformities and other conditions requiring specialised surgery. Unlike cosmetic procedures, reconstructive surgery focuses on restoring normal body function and repairing damage caused by birth conditions, accidents or disease.
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The surgeries can help patients breathe, eat, speak and move more comfortably while improving their confidence and quality of life. Children born with cleft lip and palate often experience feeding and speech difficulties, while burn victims frequently suffer restricted movement because of scar tissue.
Doctors will also treat patients requiring hand reconstruction following injuries or congenital conditions that limit everyday activities. The hospital said bringing specialists to Bukoba will reduce the burden of travelling long distances for treatment and allow more patients to receive timely care within the region.
Health officials encouraged community leaders to spread awareness so eligible patients can register before the camp begins. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to expand access to specialised healthcare services and improve the lives of patients requiring reconstructive surgery across Kagera Region.
