Plast Reconstr Surg. 1975 May; 55(5): 545-550.

Plastic surgery in rural Ethiopia.

Finseth F.

From this brief experience in Ethiopia I believe that plastic and reconstructive surgery can contribute much to the lives of many people in such underdeveloped regions of the world. If one will teach the principles of plastic surgery to the general surgeons and paramedical people who do most of the work in these areas, it can amplify and expand their capabilities. Surgery is, of course, only one link in the long chain of basic health issues, and the ultimate solutions are on a different level. Yet, the magnitude of the problems is a compelling reason to make the effort, to take the time, and to contribute our skills in developing regions of the world. Though we cannot alone conquer the entire problem, we can do our bit.