Severely Burned Russian Boy to Undergo Series of Surgeries

A 9-year-old Russian boy whose face and hands were badly disfigured in a fire will begin a series of reconstructive surgeries today at the Grossman Burn Center at Sherman Oaks Hospital.

Denis Nefedova, who lives on Sakhalin Island off Russia’s Pacific coast, was injured a year ago when vapors from gas stored in the family home caught fire as he tried to light a candle, said burn center spokesman Larry Weinberg. The boy suffered third-degree burns over 20% of his body.

Because the fire burned Denis’ hands so badly, his thumbs are no longer opposable and, as a result, he cannot grip anything, said Weinberg.

He added that doctors will try to restore usefulness in Denis’ hands and improve the appearance of the boy’s face.

Dr. Michael Pomo of North Hollywood learned of Denis’ injuries while volunteering his services on Sakhalin and brought the boy to the attention of burn specialists Richard Grossman and Peter Grossman.

The doctors are offering their services for free.

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A grant from the nonprofit Children’s Burn Foundation of Sherman Oaks and donations from thousands of residents of Sakhalin are covering the remainder of the child’s medical expenses.

Denis and his mother are staying at a local home for elderly Russians, but Weinberg said they are looking for a family to live with while the surgeries take place.