Surgical care in rural, resource-limited settings often faces challenges such as poor infrastructure and power instability. During a surgical camp in Purkot Daha, Nepal, a microscope bulb failed during myringoplasty due to voltage fluctuations. A bicycle LED light was improvised via a fibre-optic cable to complete the procedure. This case illustrates both the creativity of surgical teams and the risks of such adaptations, highlighting the need for better preparation, backup systems, and long-term investment in sustainable, low-cost innovations.
NagralSHussainMNayeemSA, et al.Unmet need for surgery in South Asia. Br Med J2017; 357: j1423.
2.
SarkarSMateusS. Doing more with less – how frugal innovations can contribute to improving healthcare systems. Soc Sci Med2022; 306: 115127.
3.
DimokoAAFyneface-OganS. Improvisation of surgical light: another way round the obstacle. Trop Dr2023; 53: 489–491.
4.
DavidsonJRFordKAde-AjayiN, et al.Improvise, adapt, overcome: mobile phone LED used as a light source for cystoscopy and resection of posterior urethral valves in a low-cost setting. J Pediatr Urol2019; 15: 85–86.
5.
RussellNJBassettPChangJ. Low-cost bicycle lights vs. cold lights for visualizing neonatal veins. J Trop Pediatr2018; 64: 202–207.
