Plastic Surgery in Wars, Disasters and Civilian Life: The Memoirs of Professor Anthony Roberts OBE

Sir Harold Gillies developed the specialty of plastic surgery after World War I, inspiring Sir Archibald McIndoe to set up a burn unit at East Grinstead Hospital. After the Second World War, specialized burn units were created throughout the UK, and military surgeons were posted to Stoke Mandeville for training. Anthony Roberts was involved in treating casualties from the Bradford City football stadium fire in 1985, leading the first British team to aid in Sarajevo during the war. He has also given aid in three other war zones and six major disasters. Over the past fifty years, the specialty has seen enormous changes, and a detailed account of these is given in an absorbing account of this life-enhancing surgery.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Sir Harold Gillies, a renowned plastic surgeon, developed and named the specialty after his extensive work between the two world wars, reconstructing severely damaged servicemen from the First World. War. Gillies' pioneering efforts not only saved countless lives but also inspired and trained surgeons from around the globe. Among them was his cousin Sir Archibald McIndoe, who, during the Second World War, established the renowned burn unit at East Grinstead Hospital. This unit provided critical care to severely burned airmen and other servicemen. The airmen themselves formed the famous Guinea Pig Club, which offered immense social and financial support to their injured comrades.

Following the Second World War, specialized burn units were established across the UK, including one at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. Anthony Roberts, a military surgeon, played a significant role in this development. As the number of war injuries declined, the burn unit for all three services was established at RAF Halton, near Stoke Mandeville. This close relationship between the hospitals led to military surgeons being posted to Stoke Mandeville for training in burn care and an introduction to plastic surgery.

While most doctors will never encounter a disaster during their professional careers, Anthony Roberts had a unique experience when he was involved in treating casualties from the Bradford City football stadium fire in 1985. This tragic incident claimed 56 lives and resulted in hundreds of injuries, many of them severe burns. The impact of this disaster was profound, not only on Roberts but also on all those involved. It sparked his media appearances and international visits to discuss the issue and to provide assistance. His leadership and dedication led to him being asked to join and lead other international efforts to aid those affected by disasters.

One of Roberts' significant contributions was his involvement in the first British team to provide aid in Sarajevo during the war. His team's efforts were instrumental in saving countless lives and providing much-needed support to the victims of the conflict. Roberts returned to Sarajevo several times, demonstrating his commitment to the cause. In addition to his work in Sarajevo, he also provided aid in three other war zones.

Sir Harold Gillies' legacy continues to inspire and shape the field of plastic surgery, and his work in reconstructing servicemen from the two world wars is a testament to his dedication and expertise. The Guinea Pig Club, established by the airmen themselves, symbolizes the unwavering support and camaraderie that exists among those who have faced adversity and emerged stronger. The specialized burn units and the development of plastic surgery techniques have greatly improved the care and outcomes for patients with burn injuries.

Anthony Roberts' story is a remarkable example of a doctor who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help those in need. His involvement in the Bradford City football stadium fire and his subsequent international efforts have demonstrated his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. His leadership and dedication have inspired countless individuals and organizations to join the fight against disasters and to provide aid and support to those who have been affected.

In conclusion, Sir Harold Gillies' specialty of plastic surgery was developed and named after his pioneering work in reconstructing servicemen from the two world wars. His cousin Sir Archibald McIndoe, along with other surgeons trained by Gillies, played significant roles in the development of burn care and plastic surgery. The Bradford City football stadium fire and Anthony Roberts' experiences further highlight the impact of disasters on individuals and the importance of medical professionals who are willing to go above and beyond to help those in need. Sir Harold Gillies' legacy continues to inspire and shape the field of plastic surgery, and his work in reconstructing servicemen from the two world wars is a testament to his dedication and expertise.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399068482