Yerevan, Armenia (Mission # 25)
From October 7–11, 2024, Arpan Global Charities (AGC) embarked on its 26th medical mission—and its second to Yerevan, Armenia—under the leadership of Dr. Sudeep Kukreja. The mission brought together anesthesiologists, neonatologists, obstetricians, orthopedic surgeons, thoracic surgeons, and nurses, who collaborated with local professionals to share expertise, advance medical knowledge, and improve patient care.
Collaborations Across Specialties
Anesthesia
Dr. Armen Chalian, an anesthesiologist, worked alongside colleagues at Izmirlian Medical Center to demonstrate advanced techniques, including nerve blocks, central line placements, and spinal anesthesia. Participating in over 15 surgeries, Dr. Chalian also introduced strategies to manage hypertension and postoperative pain for bariatric patients undergoing gastric sleeve procedures. His visit culminated in a roundtable discussion comparing anesthesia policies and practices between Armenia and the United States.
Pediatric Anesthesia
Pediatric anesthesiologist Dr. Vinod Kothapa and nurses Patrice Robison and Ashley White collaborated with Wigmore Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Dr. Kothapa assisted in several complex surgeries, including those for neuroblastoma, craniosynostosis, and spine conditions. Alongside Dr. Hambardzunyan, they explored line placements, medication protocols, and equipment use, laying the foundation for future professional exchanges through social media.
Nurses Robison and White provided bedside training for NICU nurses, focusing on swaddling, positioning, and neuroprotection techniques. They also educated new mothers on calming massage and feeding methods, while providing resources to the NICU director to secure essential materials such as glucose gel and positioning aids.
Thoracic Surgery
Thoracic surgeon Dr. Brian Palafox and Nurse Practitioner Mercedes Gossett joined the thoracic surgery team at Astghik Medical Center. They participated in advanced procedures, including lobectomies, wedge resections, and surgeries addressing thoracic outlet syndrome and lung AV malformations. Their efforts impacted over 25 patients, and Dr. Palafox is set to continue this collaboration when Dr. Danielyan, Director of Thoracic Surgery, visits Los Angeles in 2025 for the STS Conference.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dr. Bedros Kojian collaborated with Shengavit Hospital, performing 11 surgeries, including hysterectomies and uterine cancer treatments, while conducting daily patient rounds. Extending his mission to Gyumri, Dr. Kojian completed 10 additional surgeries and treated over 20 patients, building on his 25-year relationship with the region.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons Drs. Philip Krueger and Shahan Yacoubian introduced the anterior total hip replacement technique at Izmirlian Hospital, a novel method for local surgeons. Over five days, they performed 10 surgeries, including hip and knee replacements and a complex ulna reconstruction, while consulting with 30 additional patients.
Neonatology
Drs. Noltemeyer and Sudeep Kukreja visited Wigmore and Shengavit Hospitals, joining daily NICU rounds to share insights from CHOC Children’s NICU protocols. Together, they supported care improvements for 10–12 neonates per day, strengthening neonatal care practices across the region.
Mission Impact
During the five-day mission, the AGC team provided care to approximately 250 patients and performed 46 major surgeries. Each interaction was an opportunity to share knowledge, foster friendships, and leave a lasting impact.
This transformative effort was made possible through the dedication of AGC volunteers and the warm hospitality of the host hospitals. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Gevorg Msryan of Shengavit Hospital for his exceptional work coordinating logistics. To everyone who contributed their time, expertise, and resources: thank you for making a meaningful difference. Together, we’ve built connections and memories to last a lifetime.
Next Mission Announcement
Arpan Global Charities’ next medical mission will take place at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Hue, Vietnam, from February 24–28, 2025.
For more information or to participate in future volunteer medical missions, please contact Dr. Sudeep Kukreja at 714-585-1920 or email ArpanGlobal@gmail.com.
