Disseminating technology in global surgery

Area of Science:

• Global Surgery
• Health Technology Dissemination
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Effective technology dissemination is crucial for achieving universal health coverage by 2030.
• Key challenges include limited human resources, infrastructure, and financial support in global surgery.
• Understanding these barriers is essential for improving global surgical care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review technologies and medical devices for improving surgical care and training in low- and middle-income countries.
• To describe key considerations for developing new surgical technologies.
• To outline strategies for evaluating and disseminating these technologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on technologies and medical devices for global surgery.
• Analysis of key considerations, evaluation strategies, and dissemination approaches.
• Inclusion of impactful examples of successful technology dissemination.

Main Results:

• Frugal and responsible innovation principles, aligned with high scientific standards, can overcome dissemination challenges.
• Examples of successful dissemination include low-cost laparoscopes, innovative training programs, affordable external fixation devices, pulse oximetry projects, and immersive technologies for training and care delivery.
• These innovations demonstrate the potential for significant impact in resource-limited settings.

Conclusions:

• Leveraging international funding is a core strategy for facilitating technology dissemination in global surgery.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration among all stakeholders is vital.
• Frugal scientific design, development, and evaluation are essential for sustainable progress.