The paediatric war wounds Dr Abu Sittah tries to heal in Lebanon

Dr Ghassan Abu Sittah, a British-Palestinian plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in Beirut, is preparing for a series of complex operations aimed at treating children injured in recent conflicts involving Israel and Lebanon. On a recent day, he reviewed his surgical schedule for the upcoming weekend, which includes 11 young patients suffering from severe injuries caused by the ongoing violence. Among them are two siblings whose injuries date back to the 2024 conflict, which has left lasting physical and psychological scars. The cases range from partial foot amputations requiring reconstruction to complete limb loss, necessitating long-term prosthetic care. One child, for instance, requires extensive surgery to rebuild the structure of his foot so that he can eventually receive a prosthetic device. Another patient has suffered an amputation, leaving behind a challenge for both the surgeon and the family in terms of future mobility and adaptation. A third child has sustained an elbow injury that will require a multi-stage operation to preserve the function of the joint. Abu Sittah works out of the Ghassan Abu Sittah Children’s Fund headquarters located in the Hamra district of Beirut. This facility serves as both a clinic and a support center for families dealing with the aftermath of war-related injuries. The building itself stands as a symbol of resilience, having been established amid the chaos of previous conflicts. It continues to provide critical services despite the ongoing instability in the region. The surgeon's work extends beyond the operating room. He frequently interacts with the families of his young patients, offering guidance on post-operative care and emotional support. These interactions often take place in the waiting area, where parents gather anxiously before their children undergo procedures. The atmosphere is tense yet filled with hope, as each family seeks reassurance that their child will recover as much as possible. The injuries treated by Abu Sittah reflect the broader impact of the conflicts on civilian populations, particularly children. Shrapnel wounds, blast injuries, and other trauma-induced conditions are common among the patients he sees. Many of these children were exposed to violence during school hours or while playing in areas affected by cross-border attacks. The medical team at the Children’s Fund must constantly adapt to new types of injuries, often requiring innovative approaches to treatment. Despite the challenges, Abu Sittah remains committed to his mission. His dedication is evident in the meticulous planning of each case, ensuring that every operation is tailored to the specific needs of the patient. He collaborates with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including orthopedic surgeons, pediatricians, and psychologists, to provide comprehensive care. This collaborative approach underscores the complexity of treating war-related injuries, which often involve both physical and mental health components. The surgeon’s efforts are part of a larger network of humanitarian aid working within Lebanon. However, resources remain limited, and the demand for specialized care continues to grow. The Children’s Fund relies heavily on donations and international support to maintain its operations. Despite these constraints, the organization strives to offer high-quality medical services to those in need, emphasizing the importance of continuity in care for children recovering from traumatic injuries. As the situation in the region evolves, the work of doctors like Abu Sittah becomes even more crucial. With each passing day, new cases emerge, testing the capacity of local healthcare systems. Yet, through perseverance and innovation, medical professionals continue to make a difference in the lives of those affected by war. Their commitment reflects the enduring human spirit to heal, even amidst the devastation wrought by conflict.