Surgeons at ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia have successfully performed a series of complex reconstructive surgeries on a child who suffered severe facial injuries in a hyena attack. The child, who was referred to the hospital from a regional facility, arrived with catastrophic injuries, including the loss of both eyes and extensive damage to the forehead, cheeks, and upper jaw.
Upon arrival, the child was immediately admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). To stabilize the patient, medical staff performed a tracheostomy to ensure a clear airway. Following initial stabilization, a multidisciplinary team—comprising pediatricians, intensivists, general surgeons, and plastic and reconstructive specialists—began a rigorous process of debridement to prevent infection and prepare the damaged tissue for reconstruction.
The surgical team, led by Dr. Abdurezak Ali, performed a series of advanced procedures, including free tissue transfer. Surgeons harvested a 7cm x 17cm graft of skin and muscle from the child’s thigh, successfully reconnecting the blood vessels using microsurgery techniques to restore facial structure. Additionally, the shattered maxilla was stabilized using titanium plates and screws.
To date, the child has undergone at least eight surgeries and remains in recovery. While the medical team has made significant progress in restoring the child's facial form, further reconstructive work is expected. Hospital officials noted that this case highlights the critical importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex trauma.
Tragically, this is not an isolated incident; the hospital reports that another child is currently awaiting surgery for similar injuries sustained in a hyena attack. Medical professionals are urging the public to remain vigilant, emphasizing that while reconstructive microsurgery can restore function and appearance, the most effective solution is the prevention of such attacks through active supervision and community safety measures.
The surgical team included Dr. Abdurezak Ali, Dr. Ataklti Baraki, Dr. Zebiba Meka, Dr. Tesfahun Ali, Dr. Yohannes Elias, and a dedicated support staff of nurses, anesthetists, and hospital personnel.
Source: Telegram / tikvahethiopia