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Ukachukwu AEK, Petitt Z, Usman B, Ekweogwu OC, Dawang Y, Ahmad MH, Ayodele OA, Badejo OA, Morgan E, Onyia CU, Orhorhoro OI, Oyemolade TA, Okere OE, Abu-Bonsrah N, Njeru PN, Oboh EC, Otun A, Nischal SA, Deng DD, Mahmud MR, Mezue WC, Malomo AO, Shehu BB, Shokunbi MT, Ohaegbulam SC, Chikani MC, Adeleye AO, Fuller AT, Haglund MM, Adeolu AA. The Status of Specialist Neurosurgical Training in Nigeria: A Survey of Practitioners, Trainers, and Trainees. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e44-e56. [PMID: 37979680 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the well-known neurosurgical workforce deficit in Sub-Saharan Africa, there remains a low number of neurosurgical training programs in Nigeria. This study sought to reassess the current status of specialist neurosurgical training in the country. METHODS An electronic survey was distributed to all consultant neurosurgeons and neurosurgery residents in Nigeria. Demographic information and questions relating to the content, process, strengths, and challenges of neurosurgical training were explored as part of a broader survey assessing neurosurgical capacity. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. RESULTS Respondents identified 15 neurosurgical training centers in Nigeria. All 15 are accredited by the West African College of Surgeons, and 6 by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria. The average duration of core neurosurgical training was 5 years. Some identified strengths of Nigerian neurosurgical training included learning opportunities provided to residents, recent growth in the neurosurgical training capacity, and satisfaction with training. Challenges included a continued low number of training programs compared to the population density, lack of subspecialty training programs, and inadequate training infrastructure. CONCLUSIONS Despite the high number of neurosurgery training centers in Nigeria, compared to other West African countries, the programs are still limited in number and capacity. Although this study shows apparent trainee satisfaction with the training process and contents, multiple challenges exist. Efforts at improving training capacity should focus on continuing the development and expansion of current programs, commencing subspecialty training, driving health insurance to improve funding, and increasing available infrastructure for training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvan-Emeka K Ukachukwu
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
| | - Zoey Petitt
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke University Global Health Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Babagana Usman
- Department of Surgery, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - Ofodile C Ekweogwu
- Department of Surgery, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Yusuf Dawang
- Department of Surgery, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria
| | - Misbahu H Ahmad
- Department of Surgery, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Olabamidele A Ayodele
- Department of Surgery, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Oluwakemi A Badejo
- Department of Neurosurgery, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Eghosa Morgan
- Department of Surgery, Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan Remo, Nigeria
| | | | - Omuvie I Orhorhoro
- Department of Surgery, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Nancy Abu-Bonsrah
- Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Paula N Njeru
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke University Global Health Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ena C Oboh
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ayodamola Otun
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Shiva A Nischal
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Di D Deng
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Wilfred C Mezue
- Department of Surgery, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | | | - Bello B Shehu
- Regional Center for Neurosurgery, Usman DanFodio University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Matthew T Shokunbi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Mark C Chikani
- Department of Surgery, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Amos O Adeleye
- Department of Neurosurgery, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke University Global Health Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke University Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke University Global Health Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Augustine A Adeolu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Attebery JE, Nuwas E, Mayegga E, Rabiel H, Massaga FA, Elahi C, Barranco FD, Lawton MT, Hall O, Ellegala DB. Global Neurosurgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study to Compare the Effectiveness of Two Training Methods in Resource-Poor Settings. Neurosurgery 2024; 94:263-270. [PMID: 37665218 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000002652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Many low- and middle-income countries are experiencing profound health care workforce shortages. Surgical subspecialists generally practice in large urban centers but are in high demand in rural areas. These subspecialists must be trained through sustainable programs to address this disparity. We quantitatively compared the relative effectiveness of 2 unique training models to advance neurosurgical skills in resource-poor settings where formally trained neurosurgeons are unavailable. METHODS Neurosurgical procedure data were collected from 2 hospitals in Tanzania (Haydom Lutheran Hospital [HLH] and Bugando Medical Centre [BMC]), where 2 distinct training models ("Train Forward" and "Back-to-Back," respectively) were incorporated between 2005 and 2012. RESULTS The most common procedures performed were ventriculoperitoneal shunt (BMC: 559, HLH: 72), spina bifida repair (BMC: 187, HLH: 54), craniotomy (BMC: 61, HLH: 19), bone elevation (BMC: 42, HLH: 32), and craniotomy and evacuation (BMC: 18, HLH: 34). The number of annual procedures at BMC increased from 148 in 2008 to 357 in 2012; at HLH, they increased from 18 in 2005 to 80 in 2010. Postoperative complications over time decreased or did not significantly change at both sites as the diversity of procedures increased. CONCLUSION The Train Forward and Back-to-Back training models were associated with increased surgical volume and complexity without increased complications. However, only the Train Forward model resulted in local, autonomous training of surgical subspecialists after completion of the initial training period. Incorporating the Train Forward method into existing training programs in low- and middle-income countries may provide unique benefits over historic training practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah E Attebery
- Barrow Global, Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix , Arizona , USA
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora , Colorado , USA
| | | | | | - Happiness Rabiel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi , Tanzania
| | | | - Cyrus Elahi
- Barrow Global, Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix , Arizona , USA
| | - F David Barranco
- Barrow Global, Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix , Arizona , USA
| | - Michael T Lawton
- Barrow Global, Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix , Arizona , USA
| | - Osborne Hall
- Barrow Global, Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix , Arizona , USA
| | - Dilantha B Ellegala
- Barrow Global, Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix , Arizona , USA
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Debono B, Baumgarten C, Guillain A, Lonjon N, Hamel O, Moncany AH, Magro E. Becoming a neurosurgeon in France: A qualitative study from the trainees' perspective. BRAIN & SPINE 2023; 3:102674. [PMID: 38021020 PMCID: PMC10668099 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2023.102674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The training of neurosurgeons is evolving in a world of socio-professional changes, including the technological revolution, administrative pressure on stakeholders, reduced working hours, geographical heterogeneity, generational changes, to name but a few. Research question This qualitative study aimed to explore experiences and feedback of French neurosurgical trainees concerning their training. Material and methods The grounded theory approach was used with 23 neurosurgical trainees' interviews. Inclusion was continued until data saturation. Six researchers (an anthropologist, a psychiatrist, and four neurosurgeons) thematically and independently analyzed data collected through anonymized interviews. Results Data analysis identified three superordinate themes: (1) The Trainee-Senior Dyad, where the respondents describe a similar bipolarity between trainees and faculty (trainees oscillating between those who fit into the system and those who are more reluctant to accept hierarchy, faculty using an ideal pedagogy while others refuse to help or invest in training); (2) The difficulty to learn (describing pressure exercised on trainees that can alter their motivation and degrade their training, including the impact of administrative tasks); (3) A pedagogy of empowerment (trainee' feelings about the pertinent pedagogy in the OR, ideal sequence to progress, progressive empowerment especially during the shifts, and stress of envisioning themselves as a senior neurosurgeon). Discussion and conclusion Respondents emphasize the heterogeneity of their training both intra- and inter-university-hospital. Their critical analysis, as well as the formalization of their stress to become autonomous seniors, can be an important link with the reforms and optimizations currently being carried out to improve and standardize the training of young French neurosurgeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertrand Debono
- Department of Neurosurgery, Paris-Versailles Spine Center, Hôpital Privé de Versailles, Les Franciscaines, 78000, Versailles, France
| | - Clément Baumgarten
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Antoine Guillain
- AMADES (medical Anthropology, Development and Health), Centre de la Vieille Charité, 2 rue de la Charité, Marseille, France
| | - Nicolas Lonjon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hôpital Gui de Chauliac, Montpellier University Medical Center, Montpellier, France
| | - Olivier Hamel
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictive Behaviour, Gerard Marchant Hospital Center, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne-Hélène Moncany
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ramsay-Clinique des Cèdres, Cornebarrieu, France
| | - Elsa Magro
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHU Cavale Blanche, INSERM UMR 1101 LaTIM, Brest, France
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Dada OE, Bukenya GW, Konan L, Mbangtang CB, Ooi SZY, Makambo PDDN, Adrien TDE, Kenfack YJ, Senyuy WP, Abu-Bonsrah N, Karekezi C, Jokonya L, Alalade AF, Esene I, Kanmounye US. State of African Neurosurgical Education: An Analysis of Publicly Available Curricula. World Neurosurg 2022; 166:e808-e814. [PMID: 35926702 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.07.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Africa bears more than 15% of the global burden of neurosurgical disease; however, it has the lowest neurosurgical workforce density worldwide. The past decade has seen an increase in neurosurgery residency programs on the continent. It is unclear how these residency programs are similar or viable. This study highlights the current status and interdepartmental and regional differences, with the main objective of offering a template for improving the provision of neurosurgical education on the continent. METHODS PubMed and Google Scholar were searched using keywords related to "neurosurgery," "training," and "Africa" from database inception to October 13, 2021. The residency curricula were analyzed using a standardized and validated medical education curriculum viability tool. RESULTS Curricula from 14 African countries were identified. The curricula differed in resident recruitment, evaluation mode and frequency, curriculum content, and length of training. The length of training varied from 4 to 8 years, with a mean of 6 years. The Eastern African region had the highest number of examinations, with a mean of 8.5. Few curricula had correlates of viability: ensuring that the instructors are competent (64.3%), prioritization of faculty development (64.3%), faculty participation in decision making (64.3%), prioritization of resident support services (50%), creating a conducive environment for quality education (42.9%), and addressing student complaints (28.6%). CONCLUSIONS There are significant differences in the African postgraduate neurosurgical education curriculum warranting standardization. This study identifies areas of improvement for neurosurgical education in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaoluwa Ezekiel Dada
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
| | - George William Bukenya
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Landry Konan
- Neurosurgery Department, University Felix Houphouet Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | | | - Setthasorn Zhi Yang Ooi
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Yves Jordan Kenfack
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Wah Praise Senyuy
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Nancy Abu-Bonsrah
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Claire Karekezi
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Luxwell Jokonya
- Neurosurgery Unit, Department of Surgery, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Andrew F Alalade
- Department of Neurosurgery, Royal Preston Hospital, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Ignatius Esene
- Neurosurgery Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bamenda, Bambili, Cameroon
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Cheyuo C, Hodaie M. Editorial. Neurosurgical capacity-building in Africa: how do we build an equitable future? J Neurosurg 2022; 138:1098-1099. [PMID: 35962962 DOI: 10.3171/2022.5.jns22378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cletus Cheyuo
- 1Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Ontario; and
| | - Mojgan Hodaie
- 1Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Ontario; and.,2Krembil Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Banda CH, Wilson E, Malata CM, Narushima M, Ogawa T, Hassanein ZM, Shiraishi M, Okada Y, Ghorra DT, Ishiura R, Danno K, Mitsui K, Oni G. Clinical application and outcomes of reconstructive microsurgery in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2022; 75:2035-2048. [PMID: 35643598 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2022.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reconstructive microsurgical free flap techniques are often the treatment of choice for a variety of complex tissue defects across multiple surgical specialties. However, the practice is underdeveloped in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the clinical application and outcomes of reconstructive microsurgery performed in Africa. METHODS Seven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, Embase, and Google Scholar) were searched for studies reporting microsurgical procedures performed in Africa. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools and quality of evidence using the GRADE approach. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to estimate the pooled proportion of events with 95% confidence intervals. The primary outcome was free flap success rate, and the secondary outcomes were the complication and flap salvage rates. RESULTS Ninety-two studies were included in the narrative synthesis and nine in the pooled meta-analysis. In total, 1376 free flaps in 1327 patients from 1976 to 2020 were analyzed. Head and neck oncologic reconstruction made up 30% of cases, while breast reconstruction comprised 2%. The pooled flap survival rate was 89% (95% CI: 0.84, 0.93), complication rate 51% (95% CI: 0.36, 0.65), and free flap salvage rate was 45% (95% CI: 0.08, 0.84). CONCLUSION This meta-analysis showed that the free flap success rates in Africa are high and comparable to those reported in high-income countries. However, the comparatively higher complication rate and lower salvage rate suggest a need for improved perioperative care. REVIEW REGISTRATION Registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on 25th September 2020, ID: CRD42020192344.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihena H Banda
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, 514-8507, Japan; Department of Surgery, Arthur Davison Children's Hospital, Ndola, Zambia.
| | - Emma Wilson
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Charles M Malata
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Anglia Ruskin University, School of Medicine, Chelmsford, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mitsunaga Narushima
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, 514-8507, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ogawa
- Department of Breast Surgery, Mie University, Tsu, Japan
| | - Zeinab M Hassanein
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Makoto Shiraishi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, 514-8507, Japan
| | - Yoshimoto Okada
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, 514-8507, Japan
| | - Dina T Ghorra
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ryohei Ishiura
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, 514-8507, Japan
| | - Kanako Danno
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, 514-8507, Japan
| | - Kohei Mitsui
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, 2-174 Edobashi, Tsu, 514-8507, Japan
| | - Georgette Oni
- Nottingham Breast Institute, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Wekesa EW, Henderson F, Copeland WR. Letter: A Scoping Review of Burnout in Neurosurgery. Neurosurgery 2022; 90:e98-e99. [PMID: 35076029 DOI: 10.1227/neu.0000000000001848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Sarpong K, Fadalla T, Garba DL, Suliman M, Rolle M, Ammar A, Hussen H, Park KB. Access to training in neurosurgery (Part 1): Global perspectives and contributing factors of barriers to access. BRAIN AND SPINE 2022; 2:100900. [PMID: 36248138 PMCID: PMC9560711 DOI: 10.1016/j.bas.2022.100900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Neurological disorders are one of the leading causes of death and disability adjusted life years (DALYs). Efforts have been made to increase the neurosurgical workforce in an attempt to address the global disease burden. Despite these efforts, there continues to be a shortage of neurosurgeons in both high-income countries (HICs) and low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). Research question The aim of the study was to identify the barriers to neurosurgical training in LMICs and HICs. Materials and methods We administered an electronic survey targeting medical students, neurosurgery residents, and recent neurosurgery graduates from 69 countries in both HICs and LMICs. Questions were framed to assess barriers to training. Results Of the 198 responses received (31.3% response rate), 72% identified as male, 27% female, and 0.5% as non-binary gender. 33 respondents were from HICs and 165 were from LMICs. 70.1% of respondents reported no availability of dissection labs in their home institutions. There was a significant difference in availability of subspecialty training between LMICs and HMICs (p = 0.001) but no significance was seen for competitiveness of programs (p = 0.473). Discussion and conclusion There are limitations to our study: it is not comprehensive of training programs globally, there is sampling bias, especially among LMICs, and the accuracy of responses is unclear. Nonetheless, our results highlight the need for a deliberate focus on designing and implementing both short and long term goals in tackling barriers to access to neurosurgical training, with a conscientious effort to involve interested stakeholders and governments to invest in the training and education of their neurosurgical workforce. In comparing LMICs to HICs, there was no significant difference found in ranked competitiveness for entering neurosurgical training. A significant difference was found in weekly work hours (p = 0.016) and subspecialty training availability (p = 0.001) between LMICs and HMICs. 54.4% of countries represented in our study did not have neurosurgical subspecialty training available. A significant number of our respondents (70.1%) reported no availability of dissection and surgical skills labs in their home institutions.
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Mulwafu W, Fualal J, Bekele A, Itungu S, Borgstein E, Erzingatsian K, Nungu S, Chikoya L, White R, Muguti G. The impact of COSECSA in developing the surgical workforce in East Central and Southern Africa. Surgeon 2021; 20:2-8. [PMID: 34955410 DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Association of Surgeons of East Africa (ASEA) was formed in 1952. In 1996 a Steering Committee was formed to transform ASEA into a surgical college. The College of Surgeons of East Central and Southern Africa was officially launched in December 1999 in Nairobi, Kenya. Today the College consists of 14 constituent member countries but trains in 20 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. PROGRAMMES COSECSA runs a 5 year training programme in all the surgical specialties. In the first 2 years trainees do the Membership (MCS) programme. This is followed by 3 years of the Fellowship (FCS) programme. More recently the College has started a 2 year sub-specialty Fellowship in paediatric orthopaedics. GRADUATES The main aim of the College was to expand and improve surgical training in the COSECSA region. This goal was partially realised in December 2020 when the total number of surgeons produced by the College from inception reached 557. RETENTION Another key success story of COSECSA is that the majority of graduates have remained in the region leading to a high retention rate of 88.3%. WOMEN IN SURGERY AFRICA (WISA) Since the formation of WISA in 2015 the College has witnessed an increase in the number of female trainees. Currently only 9% of surgeons in the region are women. CONCLUSION In its current Strategic Plan (2021-2025) COSECSA aims not only to increase the surgical workforce in the region but also to modernise its training programmes and strengthen its governance structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wakisa Mulwafu
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, P Bag 360, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Jane Fualal
- University of Makere, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Abebe Bekele
- University of Global Equity, P.O.Box 6955, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Stella Itungu
- College of Surgeons of East Central and Southern Africa, East Central and Southern Africa Health Community, Plot No.157 Oloirien-Njiro Road, P.O.Box 1009, Arusha, Tanzania.
| | - Eric Borgstein
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, P.Bag 360, Blantyre, Malawi.
| | - Krikor Erzingatsian
- University of Zambia, School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Nationalist Road, P.O. Box 50110, Lusaka, Zambia.
| | - Samwel Nungu
- Muhimbili Orthopaedic and Neurological Institute, P.O.Box 65474, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Laston Chikoya
- Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, P.O. Box 33991, Lusaka, Zambia.
| | - Russell White
- Department of Surgery, Tenwek Hospital, Bonnet, Kenya.
| | - Godfrey Muguti
- Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P.O.Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
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Plastic Surgery Across Continents: A Comparison of Residency Training in Subsaharan Africa and the United States. Ann Plast Surg 2021; 87:3-11. [PMID: 33470626 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000002672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT There is a demonstrated need for access to plastic surgical care in low- and middle-income countries worldwide. Recently, there is increasing interest in promoting transcontinental partnerships between academic institutions to improve training opportunities for local surgeons while increasing access to care for patients. Before such programs can be established, it is crucial for US-based surgeons and educators to understand the existing training models in different countries. The aim of this study is to identify the current plastic surgery training model in the College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa (COSECSA) group of African nations and compare this to training in the United States. The curricula of 2 accrediting bodies of plastic surgery, COSECSA and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education of the United States, were compared. Similarities included the length of dedicated plastic surgery training, curriculum content, and final evaluation structure. Differences include training pathways, assessment methodology, and regulation regarding specific competencies, program requirements, and resident benefits. These findings establish a baseline understanding of how plastic surgical training is organized, delivered, and evaluated in Africa, highlight opportunities for educational initiatives, and serve as a foundation for future efforts to develop collaborative partnerships in these communities. Future research will include a survey sent to program directors and plastic surgery attendings in the COSECSA regions to gather additional information.
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State of Neurosurgical Education in Africa: A Narrative Review. World Neurosurg 2021; 151:172-181. [PMID: 34058355 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.05.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no comprehensive report of neurosurgery postgraduate education in Africa. This narrative review aimed to map out the landscape of neurosurgery training in Africa and highlight similarities and differences in training. METHODS The keywords "neurosurgery," "education," and "Africa" were searched on PubMed and Google Scholar from inception to January 17, 2021. Next, a complementary hand search was conducted on Google using the keywords "neurosurgery," "residency," and the individual African countries in English and official languages. The relevant data were extracted and compiled into a narrative review. RESULTS A total of 76 African training programs that recruit more than 168 trainees each year were identified. Less than half (40.7%, n = 22) of African countries have at least 1 neurosurgery training program. Egypt (n = 15), Algeria (n = 14), and Nigeria (n = 10) have the highest number of training programs, whereas Algeria (0.33), Egypt (0.15), and Libya (0.15) have the highest number of training programs per 1 million inhabitants. The College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa has 16 programs in 8 countries, whereas the West African College of Surgeons has 17 accredited programs in 3 countries. The duration of training varies between 4 and 8 years. There is limited information available in the public domain and academic literature about subspecialty fellowships in Africa. CONCLUSIONS This review provides prospective applicants and African and global neurosurgery stakeholders with information to advocate for increased investment in African neurosurgery training programs.
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12
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Asfaw ZK, Tirsit A, Barthélemy EJ, Mesfin E, Wondafrash M, Yohannes D, Ashagre Y, Park K, Laeke T. Neurosurgery in Ethiopia: A New Chapter and Future Prospects. World Neurosurg 2021; 152:e175-e183. [PMID: 34052452 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.05.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inequitable access to surgical care is most conspicuous in low-income countries (LICs), such as Ethiopia, where infectious diseases, malnutrition, and other maladies consume the lion's share of the available health resources. The aim of this article was to provide an update on the current state of neurosurgery in Ethiopia and identify targets for future development of surgical capacity as a universal health coverage component in this East African nation. METHODS Publicly available data included in this report were gathered from resources published by international organizations. A PubMed search was used for a preliminary bibliometric analysis of scholarly output of neurosurgeons in Ethiopia and other low-income countries. Statistical analysis was used to determine the correlation between the number of neurosurgeons and academic productivity. RESULTS Neurosurgeon density has increased >20-fold from 0.0022 to 0.045 neurosurgeons per 100,000 population between 2006 and 2020. The increase in neurosurgeons was strongly correlated with an increase in total publications (P < 0.001) and the number of new publications per year (P = 0.003). Despite recent progress, the availability of neuroimaging equipment remains inadequate, with 38 computed tomography scanners and 11 magnetic resonance imaging machines for a population of 112.07 million. The geographic distribution of neurosurgical facilities is limited to 12 urban centers. CONCLUSIONS Ethiopian neurosurgery exemplifies the profound effect of international partnerships for training local surgeons on progress in low-income countries toward improved neurosurgical capacity. Collaborations that focus on increasing the neurosurgical workforce should synchronize with efforts to enhance the availability of diagnostic and surgical equipment necessary for basic neurosurgical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerubabbel K Asfaw
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.
| | - Abenezer Tirsit
- Neurosurgery Division, Department of Surgery, Addis Ababa University, Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ernest J Barthélemy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Elam Mesfin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Mulualem Wondafrash
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Paul Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Yordanos Ashagre
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Kee Park
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Department of Global Health & Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tsegazeab Laeke
- Neurosurgery Division, Department of Surgery, Addis Ababa University, Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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13
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Henderson F, Lepard J, Seibly J, Rambo W, Boswell S, Copeland WR. An online tumor board with international neurosurgical collaboration guides surgical decision-making in Western Kenya. Childs Nerv Syst 2021; 37:715-719. [PMID: 32572570 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-020-04744-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Telecollaboration via web-based platforms has emerged as a tool to relieve constraints on the establishment of tumor boards for neurosurgical oncology. Challenging tumor cases arising in low- and middle-income countries may benefit from the use of such models. The case of a 5-year-old boy presenting in Western Kenya with a challenging tumor and symptomatic hydrocephalus was presented on a novel web platform to a multi-national audience of neurosurgeons. The treating neurosurgeon invited a physician network to review the case vignette and radiographic images. Respondents independently offered input during a prescribed response period. Three respondents provided surgical opinions during a 24-h response period. The treating neurosurgeon utilized the pooled input to determine a course of action for the patient. When a web-based platform is available, lone neurosurgeons in low-resource settings may nevertheless apply multi-national, multi-institutional perspectives to challenging oncology cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fraser Henderson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jacob Lepard
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jason Seibly
- Central Illinois Neuro Health Services, Bloomington, IL, USA
| | - William Rambo
- Midlands Orthopedics and Neurosurgery, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Scott Boswell
- Division of Neurosurgery, Salina Regional Health Center, Salina, KS, USA
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14
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Kakooza-Mwesige A, Kaddumukasa M, Koltai DC, Kaddumukasa MN, Nakasujja N, Kajumba M, Nakku J, Kolls BJ, Fuller AT, Teuwen DE, Haglund MM. Leveraging the lessons learned from studies on the cultural context of epilepsy care in Uganda: Opportunities and future directions. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 114:107302. [PMID: 32868221 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this summary paper, we review the body of research contained in this special issue, The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda, and corollary recommendations for a way forward. We review key findings and conclusions for the studies, which tell a story of culture and care-seeking through discussions and data gleaned from a rich research landscape traversing community village dwellings, shared communal areas, churches, and urban hospitals. The voices and perspectives of over 16,000 study participants inclusive of people living with epilepsy, their neighbors and healthcare workers, traditional healers, and faith leaders are reported. From this, we synthesize findings and prioritize a set of recommendations to advance epilepsy care in Uganda. Progress will require infrastructure strengthening, multilevel educational investments, and an ambitious, extensive program of community sensitization. These proposed priorities and actions outline a way forward through formidable but surmountable challenges but require harmonized efforts by government and other relevant stakeholders, scholars, clinicians, and community leaders. This article is part of the Special Issue "The Intersection of Culture, Resources, and Disease: Epilepsy Care in Uganda".
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Kakooza-Mwesige
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Mulago Hill Road, P.O.Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mark Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Deborah C Koltai
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, DUMC, Box 3119, Trent Drive, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Martin N Kaddumukasa
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Medicine, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neurology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mayanja Kajumba
- Department of Mental Health and Community Psychology, Makerere University School of Psychology, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, P.O. Box 7017, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brad J Kolls
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Neuroscience Medicine, 300 W Morgan St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Anthony T Fuller
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Dirk E Teuwen
- UCB, Allée de la recherche 60, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michael M Haglund
- Duke Division of Global Neurosurgery and Neurology, Department of Neurosurgery, Box 3807 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke University, School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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15
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Zileli M, Sharif S, Fornari M, Ramani P, Jian F, Fessler R, Kim SH, Takami T, Shimokawa N, Dechambenoit G, Qureshi M, Konovalov N, Masini M, Osorio-Fonseca E, Sanchez JAS, Bajamal AH, Parthiban J, Sih IM, Alves ÓL, Oertel J, Rasulic L, Costa F, Peul WC, Sharma K, Eldin MM, Ismail NJ, Esene IN, Hossain M, Kalevski S, Hausmann ON, Yaman O, Arif S, Brady Z. History of Spinal Neurosurgery and Spine Societies. Neurospine 2020; 17:675-694. [PMID: 33401848 PMCID: PMC7788429 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2040622.311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Zileli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Salman Sharif
- Liaquat National Hospital & Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Premenand Ramani
- Department of Neurosurgery, L.T.M. Medical College, University of Mumbai, Mumbai, India
| | - Fengzeng Jian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Richard Fessler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, USA
| | - Se-Hoon Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ansan Hospital, Korea University Medical Center, Ansan, Korea
| | - Toshihiro Takami
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki, Japan
| | | | | | - Mahmood Qureshi
- President Continental Association of African Neurosurgical Socieites (CAANS), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nikolay Konovalov
- Department of Neurosurgery, Burdenko Institute, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Marcos Masini
- Department of Neurosurgery, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Jutty Parthiban
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kovai Medical Center, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Ibet Marie Sih
- University of the Philippines, St. Luke’s Medical Center, Bonifacio Global City, The Philippines
| | | | - Joachim Oertel
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Saarland, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Lukas Rasulic
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Belgrade, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia, Slovenia
| | - Francesco Costa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Wilco C. Peul
- Department of Neurosurgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Krishna Sharma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu University, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | - Ignatius Ngene Esene
- Neurosurgery Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bamenda, Bambili, Cameroon
| | - Mohammad Hossain
- Department of Neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Shiek Mujib Medical University, Dhka, Bangladesh
| | - Svetoslav Kalevski
- Multi-profile Hospital “St Anna-Varna”, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Oliver N. Hausmann
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hirslanden Klinik St. Anna Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
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