Honduras January 2024

Operation Footprint surgeons, Drs. Neeta Hasmukh and Bhavesh Shah embarked on their annual Honduras mission as part of Operation Footprint program. The mission was to care for those with genetic foot and ankle deformities who were neglected in their care and handicapped in performing their daily duties. In addition, both doctors collaborate with local surgeons to manage foot and ankle conditions, especially after the termination of the camp. Guided by their compassion, the team treated over 250 patients and prepared 30 for surgical procedures.

Their commitment extended beyond consultations as they undertook 24 surgeries over three days. These surgeries addressed conditions such as clubfoot, cavus reconstruction, and flatfoot reconstruction, among others. The patients' ages ranged from 2 to 53 years old. Each surgery averaged three (3) hours, totaling seventy-two hours (72) of surgery performed by the team in three days.

Amidst their noble efforts, they encountered individuals afflicted with a myriad of additional genetic conditions with severe health-related challenges, including hydrocephalus (swelling of the brain) and various neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy, myelomeningocele, and spinal bifida. Sometimes, even the most talented physicians are limited in their abilities to help children with such devastating conditions. The team provided comprehensive care for all their patients despite their complexity. Through their collective expertise and heartfelt dedication, Drs. Hasmukh and Shah, the surgeons of Operation Footprint, left an indelible mark on those they served in Honduras.