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HIV positive patients and the surgeon
N Eke1, R S Jamabo, J M Adotey
1Department of Surgery, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Summary
Surgical treatment for HIV patients in Nigeria is limited due to stigma. This study highlights the need for improved surgical care and safety protocols for healthcare workers treating these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Medical and surgical care
- Infectious disease management
- Public health in Nigeria
Background:
- Lack of established guidelines for surgical treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected patients in Nigeria.
- Social stigma and fear of disease transmission deter healthcare providers from offering surgical care to HIV-positive individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document surgical cases of HIV-infected patients to encourage broader surgical intervention.
- To stimulate interest among surgeons regarding the necessity of treating HIV-positive patients.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was distributed to surgeons at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital who had operated on preoperatively diagnosed HIV-positive patients.
- Data collected included patient demographics, surgical indications, procedures, outcomes, and HIV testing details.
Main Results:
- Twenty-six HIV-infected patients (18 female, 8 male, ages 8-48) underwent surgical treatment.
- Pregnancy-related indications were most common; 19 patients recovered well, while 5 died postoperatively.
- Informed consent and disclosure of HIV status were documented for some patients.
Conclusions:
- There is a critical need to raise awareness about surgeons' obligation to treat HIV-infected patients.
- Development of a protocol for surgical care and establishment of adequate prophylaxis for healthcare workers are essential in Nigeria.