Marrying within the family and well knit groups can involve health risks ranging from neurological and blood disorders and physical deformity, warns Dr Mohammed Mofakhkharul Bari, Founder and Director of Bari-Ilizarov Orthopaedic Centre, the only recognised Ilizarov Centre in Bangladesh in an interview with Mohammed Yacoob at Shantigram, Puttaparti. Excerpts:
Who are more prone to limb deformity?
Bony deformity may be the result of trauma. Fractures that heal at an odd angle are an example of this. Conditions like ‘Blounts Disease’ may cause bony deformity and bone growth problems. Many such conditions can be prevented if marriages in close knit groups and communities are avoided as many deformities are confined to such groups.
How does one gets diagnosed in Ilizarov method?
An Ilizarov expert can identify the area where a patient requires surgery just by seeing the person. The second best option is technology. The deformities are diagnosed through X-rays, blood tests or other tests.
What about people with diabetes and hypertension?
This technique can be performed even if a person is suffering from such conditions and comes with the worst possible gangrene.
How do you handle post-surgery infection?
In developing countries, patients in government institutions are more prone to hospital-acquired infections due to maintenance issues and commitment to serve. Patients should be kept away from the public and relatives since they are potential carriers of virus and bacteria.
Your take on the conference and free medical treatment at Sathya Sai Hospitals?
The three-day conference was great. It gives experts like us an opportunity to share and take knowledge from others. And on the concept on ‘Free Health For All’ at Sathya Sai Hospitals here, it is a noble cause, as many such surgeries are very expensive and the poor cannot afford better treatment.