World Neurosurg
-
There has been a progressive growth of neurosurgery in Nigeria over the past 6 nulldecades. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the state of neurosurgical practice, training, and research in the country. ⋯ Our mixed-methods approach provided significant insights into the historical, contemporary, and future trends of neurosurgery in Nigeria. The results could form the foundation for policy improvement; health-system strengthening; better resource-planning, prioritization, and allocation; and more purposive collaborative engagement in Nigeria and other low- and middle-income countries.
-
Nigeria has an inadequate number of neurosurgeons to meet the population's demand for neurosurgical care. Furthermore, few Nigerian neurosurgeons are female. This study sought to evaluate perceived barriers to pursuing neurosurgery among Nigerian trainees. ⋯ Nigerian medical trainees perceived the time commitment of neurosurgery as a major barrier to pursuing the specialty. Regardless of gender, they also reported low exposure to neurosurgery and inadequate access to research and mentorship opportunities. However, we found that enhanced female representation among neurosurgery mentors and improved work-life balance could increase interest in neurosurgery and help expand Nigeria's neurosurgical workforce.
-
Meta Analysis
Epidemiological Burden of Neurotrauma in Nigeria: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis of 45,763 Patients.
Neurotrauma is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. We conducted this systematic review to generate nationally generalizable reference data for the country. ⋯ This systematic review and pooled analysis demonstrate the significant burden of neurotrauma across Nigeria.
-
Although women have made remarkable strides in several medical specialties in Sub-Saharan Africa, their presence and contribution to the development of neurosurgery remain limited. We sought to study the gender differences within Nigerian neurosurgery, identify challenges resulting from these differences, and recommend how African female neurosurgeons can maximize their effects in neurosurgery. ⋯ There is a deficit of both female consultants and trainees among Nigerian neurosurgeons. Identifying female medical students with a strong interest in neurosurgery and providing early mentorship might increase the number of female neurosurgeons.