The complexity of providing humanitarian surgical care in armed conflict: a framework to help categorize needs

Abstract Armed conflicts are increasing globally due to political unrest and the broader effects of climate change. Without resources to provide quality surgical care, it becomes nearly impossible to provide quality emergency surgery and trauma care similar to that in high-income countries. To understand and help aid organizations provide resources and address the surgical needs of populations facing armed conflict, a matrix to identify variables and help with interventions was envisioned. A previously published global surgery matrix based on the PIPES (Personnel, Infrastructure, Procedures, Equipment and Supplies) surgical capacity tool was adapted to this context. The novel matrix incorporates 108 variables. These variables are grossly divided into local and international agency components to address the issue of who is providing care. Using a time continuum of pre-conflict, conflict, and post-conflict allows organizations to concentrate on when during the conflict to target their intervention. In addition to the previously used personnel, infrastructure, procedures, equipment, and supplies categories, a sixth category called standards was included that addresses the issues such as information technology, data systems, quality improvement programs, and patient safety. Pilot testing of this matrix to obtain feedback from end users is the next step in development. Ultimately, peri-conflict preparedness should increase and improve surgical outcomes and reduce in death and disabilities around the world.