Sustainability in humanitarian surgery during medical short-term trips (MSTs): feasibility of inguinal hernia repair in rural Nigeria over 6 years and 13 missions

摘要

Surgical teaching missions are known to contribute significantly in reducing the local burden of disease. However, the value of short-term medical service trips (MSTs) remains under debate. Humanitarian surgery is highly dependent on funding, and consequently, data evaluation is needed to secure funding for future projects. The aim of this trial is to evaluate the results of 6-year MSTs to rural Nigeria with a specific emphasis on hernia repairs.