Global neurosurgery over a 60-year period: Conceptual foundations, time reference, emerging Co-ordinates and prospects for collaborative interventions in low and middle income countries
Enoch Uche, Jimmy Sundblom, Uko Kalu Uko, Patrick Kamalo, Alvin Nah Doe, Linn Eriksson, Ulrika Sandvik, David Révész, Mats Ryttlefors, Magnus Tisell
Abstract
Introduction: We evaluated salient initiatives invested in global neurosurgery over a 60-year period. Research question: What are the Phases, Achievements, Challenges, and Lessons of Global Neurosurgery. Methods: A 60-year retrospective study from 1960 to 2020 analyzing the major phases, lessons, and progress notes. We reviewed the foundational need questions and innovated tools used to answer them. Results: Three phases defining our study period were identified. In the early phase, birthing academic units and the onset of individual volunteerism were dominant concepts. The 2nd phase is summarized by the rise of volunteerism and surgical camps.The third phase is heralded by advocacy and strategies for achieving care equity. The defining moment is the Lancet commission for global surgery summit in 2015. Lessons include the need for evaluation of the resources of recipient and donor locations using novel global surgery tools. Conclusion: Global neurosurgery over the 60-year study period is summarized by indelible touchstones of personal and group efforts as well as triumphs derived from innovations in the face of formidable challenges.