Orthopedic Mission in Algeria

In November 2023, the Maghreb American Health Foundation (MAHF) partnered with Dr. Hamzi Samir, an orthopedic surgeon at Boudiaf Hospital in Médéa, to sponsor the visit of renowned Indian orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ratnav Ratan from Manipal Hospital, New Delhi, from November 2–8, 2023.

What Was Done

  • Organized and funded a specialized orthopedic mission in Algeria.

  • Strengthened collaboration between Algerian and international orthopedic specialists.

  • Facilitated consultations for patients with complex orthopedic conditions who had not found effective treatment options in Algeria.

  • Leveraged MAHF's longstanding partnership with Dr. Ratnav Ratan to identify potential treatment solutions for additional Algerian patients.

  • Continued MAHF's efforts to connect vulnerable children and families with world-class orthopedic care.

Impact and Success Stories

The mission built on several successful cases previously supported by MAHF and treated by Dr. Ratnav Ratan in India:

  • Aicha (El-Tarf): Faced the possibility of a left-leg amputation before being referred through MAHF. After four months of treatment, she regained mobility, returned to school, and now participates in activities such as karate, demonstrating a remarkable recovery.

  • Doudja and Sofiane: Also received specialized orthopedic treatment under Dr. Ratnav Ratan's care, contributing to the growing record of successful patient outcomes.

Significance

The mission highlighted MAHF's commitment to bringing international medical expertise to Algeria and improving access to advanced orthopedic care for children and young patients with complex conditions. By facilitating expert evaluations and treatment planning, the initiative offered renewed hope to families seeking solutions that were previously unavailable to them.

Outcome: The 2023 orthopedic mission expanded access to specialized care, showcased successful patient recoveries, strengthened international medical collaboration, and furthered MAHF's mission of "Improving health, changing lives, one child at a time."

DR. Ratnav’s arrival in Algiers: From left to right: Douja’s Father, Dr Ratnav Ratan, Dr Azzedine Stamblouli, Dr Sami Hamzi, Mr Moussaoui Khelil President de l’Association ElChiffa