The Zambian Italian Orthopaedic Hospital (ZIOH), established in 1995, is a specialized facility in Lusaka focusing on the treatment of physically disabled children and patients with complex musculoskeletal conditions. Operated by the Franciscan Sisters from Italy and Zambia, ZIOH was founded in collaboration with the Cheshire Homes Society and Italian benefactors to provide free and advanced orthopaedic surgery to children in need. The hospital operates a sustainable charitable model, offering complimentary surgical care for qualifying children while also treating private patients to support running costs and ongoing technological improvements.

• Paediatric orthopaedic surgery

• Congenital and acquired musculoskeletal disorders:

  • Club foot

  • Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease)

  • Cerebral palsy

  • Scoliosis

• Orthopaedic trauma surgery

• Joint replacement (hip and knee surgeries)

• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation

• Outpatient clinics for private and public patients

• State-of-the-art surgical practices and modern technologies (e.g., video arthroscopy, image intensifier)

• Developed protocols for patient screening, surgery, and post-operative care.

• Ongoing partnerships with international specialists and use of global best practices.

• Continuous staff training and professional development for doctors, nurses, and support staff.

Vision:
To serve as a national and regional center of excellence for paediatric and adult orthopaedic care, especially for those with limited means.

Mission:
To offer advanced surgical and rehabilitative treatment for musculoskeletal conditions, focusing on children with disabilities in Zambia and neighboring countries, through a model blending charitable care and sustainable private service.