04 June 2026
Introduction & Personnel Changes
April has been a month of transition and continued growth for the LION Hand Unit. We bid a fond farewell to Anne Perruisseau-Carrier (from France), who concluded her very productive stint as the consultant lead on April 12th.
Taking over the reins, Vinay Itte, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, returned to the team on April 11th following on from his previous visit last year. The surgical team was further bolstered by Ross McAllister, a T&O trainee, who joined us on April 6th and has hit the ground running.
A special note of thanks must go to Fatoumatta Jaiteh, our BSSH Hand Fellow from Gambia, who has now completed her time with us. Her enthusiasm and commitment to developing hand surgery skills in Malawi have been exemplary, and we wish her the very best in her future career. Ali Mohammed (from Tanzania but resident in Malawi) continues his excellent work as a Hand Fellow, providing vital continuity within the surgical team.
Clinical and Surgical Activity
The unit remained exceptionally busy throughout April, with over 36 operative cases performed and 180 patients seen in the outpatient clinic. The clinical breadth and complexity continues to challenge and inspire the team, with a focus on both complex trauma and reconstructive techniques.
Notable cases this month included:
- Complex "Spaghetti Wrists": Managing multi-tendon and nerve lacerations requiring meticulous repair.
- Nerve Transfers: Specifically addressing radial and ulnar nerve palsies to improve hand function.
- Groin Flaps: Utilised for robust skin coverage in cases of significant soft tissue loss.
Hand Therapy
Miranda has continued her invaluable role as our BSSH/BAHT therapist. The integration between the surgical team and therapy remains a cornerstone of the LION Hand Team’s success. Early mobilisation and bespoke splinting for our patients have been critical in achieving the best possible functional outcomes.
Research and Education
Education remains at the heart of our mission. The weekly teaching programme continues to thrive, benefiting local residents and Orthopaedic Clinical Officers (OCOs). The research initiated in previous months, including studies on the prevalence of Trigger Finger and De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis, remains ongoing as we move toward the goal of a sustainable, self-sufficient unit by 2028.
Social and Team Spirit
Beyond the operating theatre, the team found time to recharge and build international connections. We greatly enjoyed socialising with the Norwegian volunteers, sharing experiences and fostering a sense of global community.
The team also took the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of Malawi. Trips to Lake Malawi provided a welcome respite, allowing the volunteers to appreciate the "Warm Heart of Africa" and return to the unit refreshed for the busy weeks ahead.
Ross McAllister & the BSSH LION Hand Team
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