Masterclass on Reconstruction
after Female Genital Mutilation

Invitation to the International Conference on Reconstructive Surgery after FGM in Berlin

we are delighted to invite you to our International Conference on Reconstructive Surgery after Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), which will take place in Berlin. This event will bring together leading experts, healthcare providers, and advocates to address the growing need for surgical and holistic care for affected women, particularly in Western countries experiencing increased migration from regions where FGM is practiced.

Background
The rising number of affected patients in Western countries has led to greater awareness and professional engagement with all aspects of care for survivors. However, significant gaps remain in the practical implementation of comprehensive care, especially with regard to surgical interventions. While there is increasing attention to the medical and socio-cultural burden of FGM among healthcare providers, access to reconstructive measures beyond simple deinfibulation remains limited, with only a few highly specialized centers able to offer these advanced procedures.

Workshop Highlights
Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from internationally renowned specialists with extensive experience in clitoral reconstructive surgery. The workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of the following key topics:

• Background and Context: Understanding the anatomical, medical, and socio-cultural aspects of FGM/C.
• Clinical Evaluation: Patient assessment, counseling, and selection criteria for reconstructive surgery.
• Surgical Techniques: Detailed presentations on currently implemented surgical solutions, recent innovations, and the specialists’ individual surgical strategies.
• Management of Complications: Management of Complications: Addressing potential complications, patient follow-up, and outcome evaluation.

Hands-On Cadaver Training
A key highlight of this masterclass is the hands-on cadaver training session. This session was introduced following strong participant demand during the preceding meeting in Geneva. It offers an in-depth anatomical understanding of the vulva post-FGM/C and provides a unique opportunity to practice operative procedures under the guidance of experienced reconstructive surgeons. Step by step, participants will be able to learn and practice the latest surgical techniques that are currently under discussion and in clinical use.

"Meet the Masters" Session
Onsite participants will have the chance to present their own cases and engage in in-depth discussions with expert surgeons during the "Meet the Masters" session. This interactive forum provides a valuable opportunity to explore treatment options and receive personalized feedback from specialists.

Networking and Exchange
This event aims to foster fruitful discussions on surgical techniques originally developed by pioneers such as Thabet and Pierre Foldès. It will also showcase the latest evidence and advancements in the field, offering space for participants to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and network with survivors, advocacy groups, and international colleagues. Teams from France, the Netherlands, Egypt, Switzerland, and Germany will be in attendance, creating a truly global platform for collaboration and learning. We look forward to welcoming you to Berlin for an engaging and impactful conference that will drive progress in the care and support of FGM survivors worldwide.

With sincere regards,
Dr. med. Uwe von Fritschen & Dr. med. Mahsa Bagheri