A statement from the BAPRAS President regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine

17th March 2022

 

"As I write this it is 22 days since Russian troops began their invasion of Ukraine in what is now the largest conventional military attack in Europe since World War II. As the horror of the humanitarian disaster that is unfolding there appears in our media, our feelings of compassion for all of those suffering there are accompanied by a desire to do something to help.

For us as doctors, and in particular as plastic surgeons, we wonder if the skills we have can in any way be used to support those on the ground as the number of casualties and injuries begin to rise. These feelings are shared by our colleagues around Europe and so the European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (ESPRAS) has initiated discussions as to what we might do. This has been facilitated by the European Leadership Forum (ELF) which enables delegates of the national societies of Plastic Surgery to discuss common challenges. We have had two online meetings so far and were privileged to be joined by colleagues on the ground in Ukraine and also those co–ordinating the humanitarian and medical response. They are grateful for our concern and support but were clear that, for now, it is neither possible nor safe for us to send surgeons to Ukraine. First-aid and immediate hospital care is being delivered, but as the crisis goes on it is possible that the injured may be sent out of the country for reconstructive and third phase care. All of this is being managed at government level and by the aid organisations who have the infrastructure to respond to these situations, so we will remain in contact and will respond in any way we are asked to.

Meanwhile, please support aid through the usual channels such as DEC and the Red Cross who will use all donations well." 

Ruth Waters, 
BAPRAS President 

 

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