Surgery in Turbulent Mesopotamia: Work and Life in Erbil, Iraq, one of the most Ancient Cities on Earth

Amir Al-Dabbagh, a surgeon in Erbil, Iraq, has built a sense of trust and friendship with his patients, society, colleagues, and students through fourteen years of work. This memoir is a collection of thoughts and experiences of the medical profession through times of war and inner turmoil, fleeing as a refugee, and collected wisdom on undergraduate and postgraduate training and good practice in patient care and surgery. Dr. Waleed Khalid's practice in Baghdad during the Iraq-Iran War and the First Gulf War provides another interesting perspective on striving to care for patients in turbulent times.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 10 December 2021
Publisher: The Choir Press

Amir Al-Dabbagh, a surgeon who has dedicated fourteen years of his life to serving patients in Erbil, Iraq, has forged a deep and enduring bond with his patients, the society of Erbil, his colleagues, and students in the city. This profound connection continues to inspire him to return to Erbil and document his experiences in this memoir.

Amir's journey in the medical field began in 1970 when he graduated from Mosul and commenced his practice in Iraq for six years. Subsequently, he pursued further medical education and expertise in the United Kingdom, working at Trafford General Hospital and the Manchester Royal Infirmary. Throughout his career, Amir has prioritized patient care and the training of students. He served as a consultant surgeon and dean of a medical college in Erbil, navigating both peaceful and challenging times.

This memoir is a compilation of Amir's thoughts and experiences within the medical profession, encompassing periods of war and personal turmoil. It reflects on his journey as a refugee, his insights into undergraduate and postgraduate training, and best practices in patient care and surgery. Amir also delves into the significance of family, friends, and his genuine love for Erbil and Iraq, describing the country as a beautiful and historically rich land that warmly embraces its visitors.

However, the threat on Amir's life ultimately compelled him to leave Erbil. In addition to his personal narrative, this memoir includes an account of Dr. Waleed Khalid's practice as a consultant cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon in Baghdad during the Iraq-Iran War and the First Gulf War. Dr. Khalid's perseverance in establishing the first cardiothoracic and vascular unit in the northern region of Iraq is vividly portrayed in his account, highlighting the numerous obstacles he faced along the way.

Through his memoir, Amir Al-Dabbagh offers a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of being a surgeon in turbulent times. His story serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of healthcare professionals who strive to provide the best possible care to their patients, despite the most challenging circumstances.

Weight: 218g
Dimension: 127 x 204 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789632453