UNAIR NEWS – On the third day of its humanitarian mission in Aceh Tamiang, Universitas Airlangga’s (UNAIR) medical team expanded its response beyond providing basic care at its temporary clinic at Abah Clinic in Kuala Simpang. UNAIR’s orthopedic and anesthesiology specialists, along with resident physicians, also joined the surgical unit at Cut Meutia Regional Hospital in Langsa to treat post-disaster emergency cases.
Three urgent orthopedic surgeries
In coordination with the Indonesian Orthopaedic Association (PABOI) and the Indonesian Society of Anesthesiologists and Intensive Therapy (PERDATIN), UNAIR’s medical personnel performed emergency surgeries on three patients who sustained serious injuries from landslides and flooding. These cases included fractures of the femur and tibia that required immediate surgical care to prevent additional complications.
UNAIR medical clinic sees surge in patients
At the same time, UNAIR’s emergency medical station continues to draw large numbers of residents seeking care. On Sunday (Dec. 7, 2025), approximately 200 patients visited the clinic throughout the day with a range of health concerns, including respiratory infections and digestive issues.
“The most common conditions we’ve treated are cough, colds, shortness of breath, and diarrhea,” said Dr. Zulfikar from UNAIR’s Faculty of Medicine.
Beyond general complaints, many residents arrived with wounds requiring cleaning and medical attention. These injuries were largely caused by glass, metal debris, and nails encountered during the flooding or while cleaning their homes afterward.
UNAIR’s team provided thorough wound care to help prevent infection, noting the heightened risk of disease following natural disasters. The university’s swift action underscores its commitment to supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being, particularly in ensuring that disaster-affected communities have access to safe and reliable healthcare.
Authors: Prof. Dr. Eighty Mardiyan Kurniawati, dr SpOG-K & Khefti Al Mawalia
