We must not neglect rehabilitation in Ukraine

Appraising war's impacts on neurosurgical delivery in Ukraine

“…7,8 It is now more challenging to provide appropriate neurosurgical care as a result of the war's severe destruction to a number of specialised neurosurgery facilities. 7,8 As a result of missile attacks on the majority of neurosurgery facilities, operating rooms have been destroyed and there is a severe shortage of crucial supplies, such as operating microscopes. These missile assaults on neurosurgical facilities have not only destroyed infrastructure but also claimed the lives of many, maiming a large number of civilians as well as the neurosurgical staff who are valiantly attempting to save lives.…”

“…As a result of the frequent missile strikes and bombings, the conflict has resulted in a sizeable number of difficult neurosurgery cases, including traumatic brain (TBI) and spinal cord injuries, cranial fractures and damage to the craniomaxillofacial region, among many others. 7,8 The increased prevalence of complicated neurosurgical cases across the country puts pressure on neurosurgeons and other multidisciplinary team (MDT) members. They are consequently being compelled to conduct surgeries outside of their areas of competence, in makeshift settings or under challenging conditions, with limited access to materials and equipment.…”

Physical Therapist Education and War in Ukraine

“…The state-funded health system must now rapidly absorb and effectively manage the growing burden of physical ill health generated by war, including that secondary to severe traumatic injuries, sheltering from bombardment, and the neglect of chronic diseases that greatly reduce functioning. One of the greatest health needs created by the conflict is the surge in those requiring rehabilitation services, 10 including both conflict-related needs (such as fractures, amputations, and spinal cord injuries) and those with preexisting functional impairments and long-term requirements that face conflict-related barriers to accessing health services. Since the war has to-date wounded 7,890 civilians (a considerable underestimation), 11 and thousands of troops have been injured in combat, the burden of rehabilitation need from conflict-related injuries alone is of gargantuan scale.…”

The need for rehabilitation services in the WHO European Region is substantial and growing

“…The report estimates were calculated based on 2019 data, before recent health emergencies causing rehabilitation surges in the Region, including the war in Ukraine, 6 disease outbreaks such as COVID-19 and other health emergencies. Rehabilitation has been recognized as an essential component of the medical response to health emergencies by WHO.…”