NaPAN facilitated nodulectomy intervention from June 16 -19, 2022 in Amhara region

One of the activities of the Next Steps for Podoconiosis Project funded by IZUMI foundation is providing nodulectomy service to about 90 podoconioisis affected individual with minor nodules that prevent them from wearing regular shoes.

Accordingly, NaPAN in collaboration with Amhara Regional Health Bureau, IOCC-Ethiopia and Felegetena Podoconiosis Integrated Development Organization (FTPIDO) facilitated the nodulectomy service for a total of 34 individuals with podoconiosis, and among them 12 were female. Of the 34 individuals, a total of 14 individuals received nodulectomy in both legs.  The Nodulectomy was carried out in three different places Burie, Finoteselam in West Gojam and Hamusit in South Gondar zone.

Ten affected individuals  from the Jabitehnan district, two from Sekela, fourteen from Burie Zuria district, two each from Dembecha, Quarit, Dera, and Fogera districts received the service.

Dr. Worku Mekonnen (left) undergoing the nodulectomy in Burie Primary Hospital and individuals (right) who received nodulectomy service.

This simple intervention, a surgical debulking of nodules has led to a vivid improvement in the quality of life the service benefiting individuals as it prevents the barrier to wear shoes thereby keeping foot hygiene and freeing from unnecessary sufferings due to recurrent acute attacks.