The surgery to relieve ulnar nerve compression was performed swiftly in 15 minutes by the hospital's deputy director, Nguyen Manh Khanh, and his team on 26/7.

Doctors effectively addressed the nerve adhesion, significantly improving the patient's hand mobility immediately after the procedure.

"The shrapnel was located deep and not directly compressing the nerve, so it was left in place to ensure maximum safety for the elderly patient with underlying chronic conditions," Khanh said.

Patient Nguyen Dinh Quang receives a post-operative briefing from the medical team. Photo: Hospital provided

Patient Nguyen Dinh Quang receives a post-operative briefing from the medical team. Photo: Hospital provided

Having served as a military doctor in Quang Tri and the southwestern battlefield, Quang sustained a shrapnel injury to his arm during combat. Due to the intensity of the fighting, the wound received only temporary treatment, leaving the metal fragment lodged in his body for decades. Recently, increasing numbness, weakness, and pain severely impacted his daily life, prompting him to seek treatment at the leading surgical facility.

"Some cases are not just medical; they are stories of memory and trust. This patient fought, healed others, and now needs healing himself," Khanh reflected on War Invalids and Martyrs' Day, 27/7.

Le Nga