Restoring Lives: Five Post-Burn Deformity Surgeries Supported by Anan Foundation and BSMS Trust
Post-burn contractures are a common consequence of burn injuries. Contractures can result in significant functional limitations and deformities in the affected areas. Severe burns frequently necessitate a series of surgical procedures. The cost of these procedures becomes an barrier for many burn survivors, especially those from economically underprivileged backgrounds. Recognizing the need to address these post-burn challenges, Anan Foundation associated with BSMS Trust Hyderabad to make a difference. Anan foundation sponsored five surgeries aimed at restoring the lives of burn survivors who had endured the debilitating effects of post-burn contractures. The surgeries were performed on five patients who were experiencing post-burn deformities, including contractures in the neck, knee, hand, and breast regions.
This would not have been attainable without the support of Neehaari Mandali, the founder of BSMS Trust Hyderabad. Neehaari, herself a burn survivor, has been dedicated to providing free surgical procedures for patients dealing with post-burn deformities over the past eight years. Remarkably, she single handedly manages the BSMS Trust and has facilitated over 150 reconstructive surgeries for individuals from across India. Through BSMS Trust, she has established partnerships with various esteemed corporations.
Strength Beyond the Flames: A Journey as a Burn Survivor
As a part of my role in Anan Foundation, I had the privilege of visiting these patients in Hyderabad whose lives had been severely impacted by the difficulties of burn injuries. It was truly inspiring to hear these survivors’ stories and be reminded of how resilient people can be.
Among them, a story which touched my heart is Keerthi (name changed), a 33 years old woman and mother of 2 children. Thirteen years ago, Keerthi was cooking in her kitchen when a tragic accident occurred. In the incident, she lost her left eye, and her upper body suffered severe burns, leading to painful neck and axillary contractures. These contractures significantly restricted her mobility. At that time, her children were very young and her husband not only cared for her but also looked after their children. He worked as a laborer, and affording the necessary surgeries was a significant challenge for their family.
In their quest for financial assistance, Keerthi’s family reached out to the many people in our society , but unfortunately, no one came forward to help. It was during this challenging time that they came across an advertisement for Neehari’s trust. With hope rekindled, they reached out to her. After consultations with medical experts, Neehari invited them to Hyderabad, where Keerthi underwent a axillary contracture release surgery. This time, neck contacture release surgery was completed with the financial support provided by Anan Foundation. These procedures marked a significant turning point in Keerthi’s journey towards recovery.
Keerthi’s words still resonate with me, conveying the depth of the pain she endured when she said, “I feel like emerging from a living hell.“
Please be aware that the medical pictures within this document may include visuals of injuries, surgical procedures or conditions that some individuals may find distressing.
Elbow Contracture Release
Shoulder Contracture Release
The surgery involves releasing or lengthening the tightened tissues to improve mobility and reduce the functional limitations caused by the contracture. After the release of a contracture, reconstruction with skin grafting was a part of the comprehensive treatment plan. The primary goal is to restore range of motion and functionality in the affected area, thereby improving the patient’s quality of life.
Moving forward with learnings
As a public health professional, my previous experience encompassed diverse areas such as mental health and maternal & child health. However, being a part of Anan Foundation and engaging in this field has offered me a unique and eye-opening experience. Collaboration with other organizations and professionals is necessary to enhance the services and support available to burn survivors.
As we continue our mission to make a positive impact on the lives of burn survivors, here are some key recommendations for actions we can take:
- contributing to the cost of surgeries that burn survivors may require. Many survivors face significant financial barriers to accessing essential medical procedures. By providing financial support, we can help them on their journey to recovery.
- Scar management plays a significant role in the recovery process for burn survivors. Helping burn survivors in accessing scar revision surgeries to improve both appearance and function.
- Mental health and emotional support are crucial during the recovery process. Counseling services can provide the necessary support and coping strategies.
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