Pilot study on laparoscopic surgery in port-harcourt, Nigeria

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Innovation in Developing Countries
• Laparoscopic Techniques

Background:

• Video-laparoscopic surgery is established in Western countries, with recent emergence in Nigeria.
• This study represents the first documented experience with laparoscopic surgery in the Niger Delta region.
• Minimal access surgical techniques are gaining traction in Nigeria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of laparoscopy for common surgical abdominal conditions in the Nigerian environment.
• To evaluate laparoscopy as a valuable surgical tool in a resource-limited setting.
• To document the initial outcomes of laparoscopic procedures in the Niger Delta.

Main Methods:

• Prospective outcome study of consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures (August 2011 - December 2012).
• Data collected included patient demographics, surgical indication, procedure type, hospital stay, and surgical outcomes.
• Analysis of 15 laparoscopic procedures across general and pediatric surgery units.

Main Results:

• Fifteen laparoscopic procedures were performed on patients aged 2-65 years (mean 32.27 ± 17.86).
• Procedures included appendectomies, orchidopexy, diagnostic laparoscopy with biopsy, herniorrhaphy, and adhesiolysis.
• A 6.7% conversion rate was noted due to uncontrollable bleeding during tumor resection; all other procedures were successful.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic surgery is feasible and safe in this Nigerian environment, despite challenges.
• Surmountable challenges exist, highlighting the need for specialized training for support staff.
• Establishment of a dedicated operating theatre suite is recommended for optimal practice.