Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The current conflict in Sudan severely impacted the health service, precipitating a near-total collapse of the health system. It disrupts surgical practice, leading to deterioration in the availability and quality of plastic surgery services. This survey aims to evaluate the impact of the Sudan conflict on plastic surgery practice, focusing on the availability of services, human resources and institutional support. This was a quantitative survey conducted among all plastic surgeons working in Sudan during wartime ( N = 14). Data was collected via a structured online questionnaire from June 15–20, 2025. A total of 14 identified practicing plastic surgeons were included. Their median age was 48.5 years, with about 93% being males, and nearly two-thirds being internally displaced. The majority of the participants (86%) stated that the availability of plastic surgery services in their facility was severely disrupted or completely ceased. The reconstructive procedures, including burn management, complex wound reconstruction, facial trauma repair, and limb salvage procedures, were universally affected. (86% of the participants stated that Limited access to surgical equipment and disruption of supply chains were the most reported challenges. 86% of participants reported a severe effect on the availability and retention of trained staff and rare training opportunities. Half of the hospitals received no external support. The most urgent needs reported were medical equipment and supplies (43%) and trained personnel (36%). The Sudan conflict has led to a severe disruption of plastic surgery services, marked by a shortage of medical supplies, surgical equipment and trained staff, disruption of training opportunities and the lack of institutional support. Medical equipment, supplies, and trained personnel are urgently needed to improve plastic surgery services Not applicable.
Author: Mohammed Yousof Bakhiet
Institutions: Al Baha University, University of Kordofan
Language: English
Topic: Health and Conflict Studies
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $1,990
OpenAlex ID: W4416407864