Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Background: The rising incidence of orthopedic trauma in Ethiopia is placing increasing strain on a healthcare system already limited in resources, infrastructure, and trained personnel. This study examines the current workflow of orthopedic trauma care in Ethiopia, identifying critical barriers such as limited surgical capacity, supply shortages, and provider burnout. Through analysis of clinical practices and stakeholder insights, we highlight systemic gaps and propose targeted recommendations aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and supporting the medical workforce. Addressing these challenges is essential to mitigating the growing trauma burden and improving patient outcomes across the country.
Methods: Perspectives from four Ethiopian orthopedic surgeons were captured to provide an accurate understanding of local clinical practices. A structured interview with one orthopedic trauma surgeon explored their medical background, workflow, and barriers to care. The draft was then reviewed by three additional surgeons who provided written feedback. A specialized questionnaire guided the interview to ensure consistency and contextual accuracy.
Results: Perspectives from four Ethiopian orthopedic surgeons revealed revealed significant workflow challenges due primarily to resource limitations. Surgeons work nearly 24/7, managing high patient volumes with only one OR available at the government hospital. Emergent and non-emergent patients face delays, with a waitlist estimated to exceed 5,000 patients due to equipment shortages and limited surgical capacity. Elective surgeries take priority during the day, while emergency cases are addressed later in the day as resources allow. Post-operative care is constrained by the lack of opioid pain management and limited access to physical therapy. The interviewee emphasized that expanding hospital infrastructure and increasing OR availability would greatly improve workflow efficiency and patient outcomes.
Conclusion: Orthopedic trauma surgeons in Ethiopia navigate immense challenges, including severe resource limitations, prolonged surgical waitlists, and high patient volumes dictated by equipment availability rather than clinical urgency. Despite these barriers, their adaptability and dedication enable them to provide critical care under difficult conditions. Addressing these issues requires systemic improvements in surgical infrastructure, increased access to medical equipment, and enhanced rehabilitation services. Collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare institutions, and international organizations are essential to improving orthopedic trauma care in Ethiopia.
Study Design: Qualitative Descriptive Study, Level of Evidence V.