Report on a Medical Mission with Impact

In January 2026, we travelled to Benin for an orthopaedic and trauma mission at the hospitals in Boko and Papané with Dr Stijn Hermans (AZ Diest), Dr Thomas Mulier (Heilig-Hart Hospital Leuven), head nurse Tatiana Lurquin (Heilig-Hart Hospital Leuven), the local anesthesiologist, and our Beninese colleagues Dr Yves and Dr Cyrille.

From Consultations to Surgery

During this mission, we saw about forty patients in consultation and performed 18 surgical procedures.

We mainly treated children with severe orthopaedic conditions. These included clubfoot in very young children ages 0 to 2, as well as pronounced leg deformities such as bowlegs and knock-knees. Trauma care also played a major role. We treated several complex upper arm fractures that had healed poorly. We also cared for a few rarer congenital deformities, such as polydactyly.

Strong Preparation, Valuable Collaboration

One of the mission’s greatest strengths was the excellent preparation by our local colleagues. Thanks to their commitment, we were able to get to work immediately upon arrival and already carry out many consultations in Papané.

The first part of the mission took place in Boko, and the second in Papané. Once again, we saw how essential close collaboration with local physicians is. Their knowledge of the patients, their dedication, and their practical preparation made a real difference. In Papané, we were especially impressed by Dr. Cyrille’s enthusiasm. It was also a pleasure to work again with Dr. Yves in a warm and familiar atmosphere.

More Than Medical Care Alone

At the same time, endocrinology and a gynaecology missions were also operating in the same hospitals. Their presence added extra energy and made the level of commitment in the field even more tangible.

After long workdays, it was especially meaningful to spend time in the evenings with our local colleagues and the other teams. We listened to music, shared drinks, exchanged stories from the day, and sometimes even went running together. Those moments also helped build trust, friendship, and connection.

Encouraging Results

The first post-operative updates were encouraging as well. About six weeks later, our local colleagues reported that most patients were recovering well. They observed only a few infections and noted very positive clinical results.

This once again confirms how valuable these missions are. They mean a great deal to the patients and their families. But they also leave a deep human impact. The encounters, mutual trust, and shared commitment make every mission unique.

Looking Ahead

We therefore hope to organise another mission to Boko and Papané by the end of this year to further our ongoing efforts in the region.