THE POWER TO READ AND THE COURAGE TO CUT: ESTABLISHING A NEUROSURGICAL PRACTICE AFTER RESIDENCY

Abstract

Background. There is a paucity of expertise in the field of Neurosurgery locally necessitating the training of specialists to sub serve the Sub-Saharan region. Aim. This report looks at the early case load, challenges and opportunities, outcomes of a single surgeon in the field of neurosurgery after residency. Methodology. A prospective study of the initial 172 consecutive patients that underwent cranial and spinal surgeries, by the author post-residency, were reviewed and presented. Results. The case load, presentations, surgical decision making and potential pitfalls are considered as well as early outcomes. Relevant demonstrative surgical cases are presented as well as summative data on case mix and outcomes. Conclusion. Years of clinical experience have presumably a positive effect, in a simple volume-outcome relationship. However, we believe such findings nevertheless further emphasize the importance of selecting the right physician for the right job, with excellent results after intensive and comprehensive training.