World Neurosurg
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Access to neuro-oncologic care in Nigeria has grown exponentially since the first reported cases in the mid-1960s. In this systematic review and pooled analysis, we characterize the growth of neurosurgical oncology in Nigeria and build a reference paper to direct efforts to expand this field. ⋯ This study highlights key trends regarding the prevalence and management of neuro-oncologic pathologies within Nigeria. Further studies are needed to continue to learn and guide the future growth of this field in Nigeria.
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There has been a modest but progressive increase in the neurosurgical workforce, training, and service delivery in Nigeria in the last 2 decades. However, these resources are unevenly distributed. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the availability and distribution of neurosurgical resources in Nigeria while projecting the needed workforce capacity up to 2050. ⋯ Collaborative interventions are needed to address gaps in Nigeria's neurosurgical capacity. Investments in training, infrastructure, and funding are necessary for sustainable development and optimized outcomes.
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Lumbar Erector Spinae (ESP) field blocks have become a common postoperative treatment for surgical pain. The use of long-acting medications like liposomal bupivacaine (Exparel) has become a major component of multimodal postsurgical pain control. Traditionally ESP injections have been performed using ultrasound (U/S) guidance by an anesthesiologist. Spine surgeons have begun to utilize these liposomal injections in their procedures for postoperative pain management. Our study describes a fluoroscopic guided ESP field block technique which provides reproducible muscular coverage and pain control for spine surgery. ⋯ Surgeon-administered fluoroscopic-guided ESP field blocks provided a reliable and consistent pattern of coverage with good postoperative pain control. This technique can be easily adopted by spine surgeons.