Dr. Karl Schuhmann on Humanitarian Mission in India

This article sheds light on the planning, teamwork, and empathy behind a two-week mission. 76 operations in a short period of time – each one with the aim of restoring function and dignity.

Interdisciplinary Team

Plastic surgeons, anaesthetists, theatre nurses, and junior doctors form the core team. They are supported by local professionals who provide translations and carry out aftercare.

Burns Surgery in Focus

Open fires frequently cause severe burns. Skin grafts, Z-plasties, and tendon transfers restore movement. In children, these procedures prevent permanent deformities.

Donations Make It Possible

Every mission is funded through private donations and partner foundations. Medical equipment, dressings, and medications travel as excess baggage – carefully sorted and documented.

Sustainability Through Knowledge Transfer

Workshops with local doctors and physiotherapists ensure long-term success. In addition, patients are registered for follow-up appointments so that they can continue to be treated on subsequent missions.

FAQ

How is a mission prepared?

Months in advance, patient lists are compiled, medical supplies are gathered, and logistics as well as visas are organised. Training sessions prepare the team for country-specific challenges.

Which operations are most common?

Burn scars that restrict hand movement, malformations such as syndactyly, cleft lip and palate, and scars from infections. Often several corrections can be performed in a single session.

How is aftercare managed?

Local clinics take over dressing changes and physiotherapy. The team documents every case in order to review progress on follow-up missions and plan further procedures.

What role does education play?

Families receive information on hygiene, burn prevention, and skin care. Workshops raise awareness of safe cooking practices and first-aid measures.

Über den Autor

Dr. med. Karl Schuhmann

Facharzt für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie & Handchirurg

Mit mehr als 30.000 Eingriffen und mehrjähriger Tätigkeit als Chefarzt führt Dr. Schuhmann seit 2016 als Gründer von artethic® seine Praxen in Düsseldorf und Berlin.