Global neurosurgery: innovators, strategies, and the way forward

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Neurosurgery
• Health Systems Strengthening

Background:

• Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) face significant deficits in neurosurgical capacity and access to care.
• Advancements in neurosurgery have disproportionately benefited high-income nations, exacerbating global health inequities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To broadly examine engagement strategies in global neurosurgery.
• To identify key approaches for addressing neurosurgical challenges in LMICs.

Main Methods:

• Review of diverse engagement methods in global neurosurgery.
• Analysis of strategies including surgical camps, educational and training programs.
• Examination of health system strengthening, policy development, and advocacy efforts.

Main Results:

• Global neurosurgery efforts are consolidating, developing a unified voice.
• Multifaceted strategies are being employed to build neurosurgical capacity in LMICs.
• International collaboration is emerging as a critical component of global neurosurgery.

Conclusions:

• A coordinated, multilateral approach is vital for advancing global neurosurgery.
• The future of global neurosurgery is promising due to increasing collaboration and engagement.