Reconstructive surgeons at the American University of Beirut Medical Center have highlighted the extensive road to recovery facing many individuals injured by the recent explosions of wireless devices in Lebanon.
The incidents, which occurred as a result of a joint operation by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Mossad, have had devastating consequences. The detonation of pagers on Tuesday led to the death of 12 individuals and left 2,800 others wounded. Subsequently, on Wednesday, walkie-talkies exploded, resulting in the loss of at least 37 lives and causing injuries to 450 people.
According to the surgeons, patients have been arriving at the hospital with injuries predominantly affecting their hands, faces, and eyes. The medical team has already performed between 50 and 60 surgeries in response to the crisis, with a similar number expected to be carried out in the coming days.
One of the major challenges faced by the medical staff is the shortage of equipment due to the high volume of casualties. Moreover, the nature of the injuries sustained means that patients will require extensive rehabilitation and reconstruction procedures over the next few years, ranging from five to twelve surgeries per individual.
Furthermore, the impact of the explosions has not been limited to the direct victims. Family members who were in close proximity to the wireless devices at the time of detonation have also been significantly affected. In one instance, a family traveling in a car experienced the explosion of a pager that had been placed between the seats, resulting in injuries to those present.
