Exclusively supporting the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital in Ethiopia
Facilities
The new 50 bed hospital was opened in 1975. But
as a result of refurbishment in 1998 there is now a large 60 bedded ward and a
small 12 bedded ward.
The operating theatre has an unusual layout - all 4 operating tables are in the same theatre. Operations are on Mondays, Wednesdays
and Fridays, with the other days used for sterilisation of theatre and
equipment.
The Operating Theatre
The Hamlins developed techniques not generally
used in Europe and the USA. Dr Catherine Hamlin is a world leader in this work.
The operations are a low-tech affair, usually done with
a local spinal anaesthetic - with occasional use of a locum anaesthetist for
a general anaesthetic.
Absolute cleanliness and good hygiene are
prerequisites.
