What do you hope to achieve for Ukrainian trauma surgery by taking part in this congress?
Ankin: Our goal is to create a modern trauma management system, as Ukraine currently operates under a system that was established in the 1970s based on the Soviet model. We are actively seeking new legal and organizational models to develop our trauma care service. We are confident that exchanging experiences with leading European experts will help us define a system that will serve as a reliable foundation for future work.
Which current developments in trauma surgery are particularly relevant for Ukraine, and how can the exchange with international experts at the ECTES Congress contribute to this?
Ankin: At present, we highly value your experience in the operation of trauma centers, team collaboration, and the expertise of trauma care specialists, as well as the level of basic training for doctors in assessing patient conditions and developing strategies for providing trauma and polytrauma care. Additionally, we consider the diagnosis and treatment of bone infections, defect management, plastic wound closure, and comprehensive treatment of chest, abdominal, and combined injuries to be of utmost importance.
How important is international exchange for the further training of trauma surgeons in Ukraine, and what new perspectives do you expect for Ukrainian specialists?
Ankin: Given your extensive experience in organizing trauma patient care, it is extremely important for us to familiarize ourselves with your practical achievements. We are confident that integrating effective postgraduate education systems and specialist training will allow us to align our approaches with the best global standards. We hope that, through joint efforts, we will be able to reform the existing treatment system in Ukraine.
The war in Ukraine has put a strain on the healthcare system. What lessons can be drawn from the experiences of the conflict and how can these be addressed at the ECTES Congress?
Ankin: During the war, a significant number of civilian hospitals were involved in treatment, many of which had no prior experience in handling such patients. The issue of providing qualified care and rehabilitation for this category of patients remains unresolved in nearly all hospitals across Ukraine. Unfortunately, we still lack an effective external teamwork system, and this approach needs to be reviewed and reorganized. We are eager to share our experience, discuss the emerging issues, as well as the mistakes and challenges we have faced in treating such patients.
What is the most important message that you, as President of the Ukrainian Society of Trauma Surgery, would like to convey to your international colleagues at the congress?
Ankin: A civilian orthopedic surgeon must be well-versed in the fundamentals of treating all types of injuries—knowledge gained today may become the key to the future development of the medical system. Do not forget to invest in the education of trauma surgeons, as their experience and expertise play a crucial role in improving the healthcare system. Training today is the foundation that will shape the future and determine our ability to overcome tomorrow’s challenges.
