Two senior orthopedic specialists, Dr. Latte and Dr. Hanson Ayum Lanyo, have sounded a warning about the dangers of relying on traditional bone-setting practices. In an interview on the GTV Breakfast Show, they shared their experiences with patients who suffered severe complications, including amputations, due to delays in seeking professional medical care.
According to Dr. Latte, many patients believe that fractures must be tied with bamboo sticks or other traditional methods for proper healing. However, this approach often leads to severe complications. “We find ourselves in a part of the world where people strongly believe that broken bones should be tied,” he explained. “Some families even leave the hospital because we are not using traditional methods. They insist that only a local healer can fix the bone.”
Dr. Lanyo shared a disturbing account of a child who was brought to the hospital with a rotten limb due to traditional treatment. “Sadly, in such cases, there is nothing we can do but amputate,” he said.
The specialists emphasized that many conditions, especially in children, can be corrected without surgery if treated early. However, delays in seeking medical care often result in more complicated and costly treatments. “The best outcomes happen when patients seek help early,” Dr. Lanyo stressed. “It’s not just about saving a limb; it’s about saving a life.”
The experts urged the public to trust medical professionals and avoid delays caused by traditional bone-setting practices. They also sought to dispel harmful myths surrounding bone healing, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional medical care for fractures and musculoskeletal conditions.
GBC/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
