Over use of Surgery in Russia and Belarus: An Update

The main topics of this review are invasive procedures used today or in the recent past in Russia without sufficient indications.Besides, overtreatment of thyroid nodules in Belarus is discussed.Numerous examples of overtreatment have been described with documentary evidence in a recedntly published book.Invasive methods were applied without sufficient indications in people diagnosed with alcohol-related disorders, also for research.Cauterization of endocervical ectopies without a preceding Pap-smear has been applied.Exessive radicalism of breast cancer management, overuse of surgery for peptic ulcers and certain respiratory conditions are discussed here in more detail.Some contributing factors have remained since the Soviet time: the authoritative management style, paternalism and partial isolation from the international scientific community.Admttedly, free Internet resources are helpful.Considering shortcomings of medical practice, research and education, governmental directives and increase in funding is unlikely to be a solution.Measures for improvement of the healthcare in Russia must include participation of authorized foreign advisors.