The observations and experience of the Surgical Disaster Response Team from Ankara Etlik City Hospital in the earthquakes of February 6, 2023 in Türkiye

Extremity injuries are common among earthquake survivors and usually require orthopedic intervention. In a hospital where the administrative staff are also disaster victims, management should be assumed by the incoming disaster response team. A detailed disaster preparedness plan must outline which regions will provide support, including personnel, transportation, materials, and patient referrals, to specific disaster-affected areas. In addition to surgeons, the disaster response team must include emergency medicine specialists, internal medicine specialists, pediatricians, and gynecologists. The Surgical Disaster Response Team should be a fully integrated unit consisting of doctors, nurses, and auxiliary personnel.