ALLEVIATING NEUROSURGICAL DISEASE BURDEN FROM WAKE OF PANDEMIC TO HAVOC OF FLOODING IN PAKISTAN. NEUROSURGICAL RURAL OUTREACH SURVEY TO MEET GLOBAL NEUROSURGERY CHALLENGES
Main Article Content
Keywords
neurosurgical diseases, rural healthcare, Pakistan, hydrocephalus, mobile surgical units, telemedicine, healthcare disparities
Abstract
Background: In Pakistan, neurosurgical diseases pose a significant health challenge, particularly in rural regions where medical resources and awareness are limited. Factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural beliefs, and a deficient healthcare infrastructure further exacerbate the burden of neurological illnesses.
Methods: This study employed a structured survey conducted across 19 surgical camps in a combined area of 149,757.6 km², facilitated by the Government of Pakistan. A total of 1,793 patients underwent assessment for neurosurgical conditions, with a detailed analysis of city-specific data to identify regional disparities.
Results: The findings revealed that 16.45% of the patients required urgent surgical intervention. Of these, 42.37% were diagnosed with hydrocephalus and 30% with Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD). The prevalence of hydrocephalus was notably higher in rural areas (53.65%), with only 13.89% of the necessary surgeries being performed in these remote locations.
Conclusion: The significant incidence of neurosurgical diseases in rural areas underscores the need for innovative approaches in detection, treatment, and management. Implementing capacity-building initiatives, telemedicine, mobile surgical units, and enhancing community participation could significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life for affected populations.
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Peer Asad Aziz
Assistant Professor of Neuro Surgery, Bilawal Medical College, Pakistan
Etizaz Ahmed
Senior Registrar of Neuro Surgery, Bilawal Medical College, Pakistan
Muzaffar Ali Bhand
Assistant Professor of Neuro Surgery, Ibn- e- Sina University, MirPurkhas, Pakistan
Kanwal Ali
Post Graduate Trainee, Liaquat University of Medical Sciences, Pakistan
Zeeshan Nasir
Post Graduate Resident, LUH Hyderabad, Pakistan
Matee Ur Rehman
Post Graduate Resident, LUH Hyderabad, Pakistan
Komal S Armani
Post Graduate Resident, LUH Hyderabad, Pakistan
Haseeb Ullah Qazi
Post Graduate Resident, LUH Hyderabad, Pakistan