To decrease the backlog in orthopaedic surgeries the medical team at the Bongani Hospital in Welkom embarked on orthopaedic marathons and performed 20 surgeries.

“These simple but multiple orthopaedic cases cause serious backlogs in the healthcare system and lead to hospitals being overwhelmed and patients spending many days to months waiting for surgery,” said Free State MEC for Health Mathabo Leeto.

Surgeons participating in the orthopaedic surgeries. Picture: Facebook/Free State Department of Health

The start of the holiday season frequently contributes to the high rates of trauma and violence, therefore hospital staff committed to resolving the cases they had. The hospital caters to orthopaedic patients of Fezile Dabi, Lejweleputswa, and neighbouring provinces.

Leeto said 20 patients underwent surgery this past weekend, bringing the number of surgeries since April to almost 750.

Dr Jabu Mofokeng was the lead surgeon during the surgeries. Picture: Free State Department of Health/Facebook

“We appreciate the sacrifice and commitment of everyone who has lent a helping hand in the marathon. We need more decisive actions to improve life quality and prevent death,” said Leeto.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame  Daphné/Morné