NNUH surgeon travels across the world to perform life changing surgery

“May Allah give you eternal happiness and good health” were the words said to Mr Junaid Hanif, Consultant Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital by a patient following four days spent at the 'Ear Surgery Camp' in Mirpukhas, Pakistan.

Mr Hanif had been involved in the setting up of the Ear Surgery camp through the International ENT Society and was one of three surgeons from the UK who travelled to Pakistan to perform complex surgical procedures as well as train and improve current surgical skills.

In Pakistan there is a high rate of chronic ear disease which can only be treated with complex surgery. The ear surgery can often cost up to ten times the annual income of families and as a result many patients have to suffer with the symptoms of discharging ears and hearing loss which in some cases can lead to meningitis, brain abscess' and paralysis of the face. Thirty eight major ear operations were performed between the four guest surgeons over the four days working more than 12 hours a day.

“We were successful in getting over £60,000 of ex-display and obsolete operating equipment donated to the Civil Hospital in Mirpukhas and a £2,000 donation from the British Medical Association's charities fund.' commented Junaid; 'There was an unbelievable amount of gratitude from the families and patients and because of that these were by far the most rewarding days of my life' continued Janaid.

With all the donated surgical equipment it is hoped that such Ear Camps will become an annual event at Mirpurkhas and Mr Hanif is keen to ensure he continues to perform life changing ear surgery in Pakistan over the forthcoming years.