Publications
Research, reports and articles by the Global Surgery Foundation and our partners. Select a title to open the publication.
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A pilot study on the acceptability and safety of collaborative triage and treatment with traditional bonesetters for extremity fracture patients in rural Tanzania
A pilot trial in rural Tanzania compared fracture care by traditional bonesetters alone with a collaborative model involving health workers. The collaborative model had fewer complications and was acceptable to patients, bonesetters and staff.
BMJ Global Health · November 2025
Improving intersectoral collaboration between formal healthcare workers and traditional bonesetters: evaluation of a pilot collaborative orthopaedic trauma course in rural Tanzania
Health workers and traditional bonesetters in rural Tanzania took a joint course on fracture care. Knowledge scores rose and stayed higher a year later, and participants reported greater mutual respect.
BMC Medical Education · August 2025
Incidence, Impact, and Healthcare-Seeking Behavior for Extremity Fractures in Resource-Limited Settings: A Household Survey in Rural Tanzania
A household survey in rural Tanzania estimated how often extremity fractures occur and found that nearly all patients sought care from traditional bonesetters, citing lower cost and faster perceived healing.
World Journal of Surgery · April 2025
Broad Support Among Stakeholders for Collaboration Between Traditional Bonesetters and Formal Healthcare: A Qualitative Study in a Resource-Limited Setting
Focus groups and interviews with patients, traditional bonesetters, hospital staff and local government in Tanzania's Rorya district showed broad support for collaboration, most often through a joint triage and referral system.
INQUIRY · March 2025
Intersectoral Collaboration Between Traditional Bonesetters and Formal Healthcare: A Systematic Review on Past Initiatives and Stakeholder Perspectives
A systematic review found limited evidence on collaboration between traditional bonesetters and formal healthcare, but most stakeholders supported it, with training for bonesetters the most frequently suggested approach.
World Journal of Surgery · January 2025