A hand surgeon and his family in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Abstract

Those of us who have trained and practice our profession in developed countries, frequently overlook the orthopaedic, and general medical needs, of the developing world. After brief periods in India and more than 4 years practicing in Cambodia, the opportunities for the orthopaedic surgeon to make an impact on patient care and medical education are clear. The challenge of treating patients with untreated congenital and traumatic deformity, advanced tumors, and land mine injuries can be met with dedication to medical education and skills transfer to local personnel. I have experienced many challenges, balanced by the satisfaction of teaching a generation of surgeons and directly helping so many who would have no other opportunity for care, while providing a worthwhile experience personally and for my family. Many will find such work rewarding, knowing that they will leave their mark for good on a hurting world.