An orthopedic surgeon has recounted performing an emergency leg amputation on a five-year-old girl in Gaza while lacking access to anaesthesia. Dr. Mark Perlmutter described the procedure as taking place during ongoing conflict, when medical supply shortages had become critical in the region.
According to the surgeon’s account, medical staff attempted to support the child throughout the operation by singing to her as she remained conscious during the amputation. Perlmutter indicated that the medical team hoped the girl would lose consciousness during the procedure, given the circumstances they faced.
The case highlights severe shortages of essential medical supplies affecting healthcare facilities in Gaza. Hospitals in the region have faced significant challenges in maintaining adequate inventories of pain management medications and other critical resources needed for surgical procedures.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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