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Wong GM, Williams JD, Smith KF, Buck P, Bryant JP, Nair MN. Concerns, Perceptions, and Career Considerations of Female Medical Students Interested in Neurosurgery: A Qualitative Case Study. World Neurosurg 2024; 189:264-271. [PMID: 38936610 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.06.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurosurgery exhibits notably lower representation of Black, Hispanic, and female surgeons compared to various other medical and surgical specialties. Existing research focuses on medical students' views on surgeons, factors influencing female medical students' preferences in surgical fields, and the perceived interests and concerns of students contemplating a career in neurosurgery. However, there is a significant gap in understanding the unique concerns and perspectives of female medical students interested in neurosurgery. METHODS Semistructured interviews with female medical students were recruited from medical schools in the District of Columbia area. Interview questions were based on Lent and Brown's Social Cognitive Career Theory. Transcripts were analyzed thematically into codes. RESULTS In total, 8 female medical students from our institution participated. We identified 3 major themes that influenced medical students decision-making: sense of belonging (diversity, mentorship, and passionate), self-efficacy (ambitious/"gunner," intense/competitive), and outcome expectations (innovation/research, immediate impact, procedural/surgical aspect, salary, and work-life balance). CONCLUSIONS Female medical students face distinct challenges and factors to consider when choosing a career in neurological surgery. The biggest concern for female students was a sense of belonging. It is imperative to enhance the diversity within the neurosurgical specialty and boost the representation of female neurosurgeons. Early interventions designed to tackle and alleviate their specific concerns are pivotal in achieving this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia M Wong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA.
| | - Josef D Williams
- Department of Neurosurgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Kitara F Smith
- Department of Neurosurgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Parker Buck
- Department of Neurosurgery, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jean-Paul Bryant
- Department of Neurosurgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - M Nathan Nair
- Department of Neurosurgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Anand A, Ajayi AO, Ansari A, Mustapha MJ, Verma A, Adinoyi SA, Uthman U, Usman A, Mofatteh M, Khatib MN, Zahiruddin QS, Gaidhane S, Sharma RK, Rustagi S, Satapathy P, Ajibade AA, Oluwamayowa O, Obanife HO, Ahmad KI, Ogunleye OO. Academic Neurosurgery in Nigeria- Past, Present, and Future: A Review. World Neurosurg 2024; 189:108-117. [PMID: 38851629 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.05.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Nigeria's neurosurgical field faces profound challenges, including a critically low neurosurgeon-to-patient ratio and significant migration of medical professionals to developed countries. High costs, low socioeconomic status, and the urban-centric location of neurosurgical centers impede access to care. Key barriers to service delivery include lack of manpower, insufficient emergency care, limited imaging modalities, inadequate operative equipment, and ineffective political and administrative policies. Neurotrauma is the primary reason for neurosurgical intervention but is poorly managed due to delayed access and insufficient guidelines. The neurosurgical education system is strained by limited training capacity and the absence of subspecializations, restricting specialized care. Research output is low, hindered by limited infrastructure, lack of databases, insufficient funding, and minimal international collaboration. To address these issues, it is critical to enhance the imaging capabilities, ensure the availability of operative equipment, and establish effective policies for task sharing and communication at different levels of care. Other approaches include expanding training capacity, particularly in rural areas, implementing a uniform match system for residency, addressing gender disparities, and utilizing dual practice to ensure adequate compensation for neurosurgeons. Furthermore, stakeholders should develop subspecialization programs in areas such as neurovascular, neuro-oncology, pediatric neurosurgery, and minimally invasive neurosurgery to expand service scope. To transform the neurosurgical research landscape, efforts should be made to establish electronic medical databases, foster international collaborations to ensure funding, and make research mandatory for accreditation renewal to ensure continuous academic contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayush Anand
- B. P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal; MediSurg Research, Darbhanga, India; Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune, India
| | | | - Ayesha Ansari
- Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune, India; Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sawangi (Meghe), India
| | | | - Amogh Verma
- Rama Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Hapur, India
| | | | | | - Abubakar Usman
- Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Mohammad Mofatteh
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Mahalaqua Nazli Khatib
- Division of Evidence Synthesis, Global Consortium of Public Health and Research, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education, Wardha, India
| | - Quazi Syed Zahiruddin
- Division of Evidence Synthesis, South Asia Infant Feeding Research Network (SAIFRN), Global Consortium of Public Health and Research, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education, Wardha, India
| | - Shilpa Gaidhane
- One Health Centre (COHERD), Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, and Global Health Academy, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education, Wardha, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Sharma
- Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, India; Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, India
| | - Sarvesh Rustagi
- School of Applied and Life Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Prakasini Satapathy
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India; Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, AL-Mustaqbal University, Hillah, Iraq
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Çalış F, Şimşek AT, İnan NG, Topyalın N, Adam BE, Elias Ç, Aksu ME, Aladdam M, Gültekin G, Sorkun MH, Tez M, Balak N. Factors Affecting Turkish Medical Students' Pursuit of a Career in Neurosurgery: A Single Center Survey Study. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e926-e943. [PMID: 38460813 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.02.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statistics show that over the past 2 decades, even in high-income countries, fewer and fewer students have listed neurosurgery as their top career option. Literature on medical students' pursuit of neurosurgical careers in middle- and low-income countries are scarce. The aim of this research, conducted in Turkey with a middle-income economy, was to contribute insights relevant to medical education and neurosurgery across the world. METHODS A survey was conducted with a target sample of fourth-year (167 students), fifth-year (169 students), and sixth-year (140 students) medical students (476 in total) from the Medical School at Istanbul Medeniyet University in Turkey. The response rates of the fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-year students were 62% (104/167), 53% (90/169), and 50% (70/140), respectively (in total, 266, including 147 female and 119 male). RESULTS In terms of the genuine intention, only 2.5% of men and 2.7% of women were committed to specializing in neurosurgery. This study further revealed that possible reasons for these students' low motivation to specialize in neurosurgery were their beliefs that in neurosurgery, the physical and psychological demands were high, and the night shifts were intense, meaning they would not have a social life or spare time for their hobbies; that morbidity/mortality were high; and that financial incentives were insufficient, especially in public institutions. CONCLUSION Turkish medical students did not rank neurosurgery at the top of their career choices. Possible reasons for this are socioeconomic factors and the inadequate introduction of neurosurgery to medical students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatih Çalış
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Abdullah Talha Şimşek
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | | | - Nur Topyalın
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Baha E Adam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Çimen Elias
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Muhammed Emin Aksu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Mohammed Aladdam
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Güliz Gültekin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | | | - Müjgan Tez
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Naci Balak
- Department of Neurosurgery, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Göztepe Prof. Dr. SüleymanYalçın City Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye.
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Esen Aydin A, Gazioglu N, Tasiou A, Mihaylova S, Salokorpi N, Karampouga M, Broekman MLD, Janssen IK, Magnadottir HB, Somma T, Pajaj E, Hernandez Duran S, Vayssiere P, Rodríguez-Hernández A, Lambrianou X, Tsianaka E, Rosseau G, Murphy M. European Medical Students' Views on Neurosurgery, with Emphasis on South-East Europe (Albania, Greece, Serbia, and Turkey). World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e523-e531. [PMID: 38382757 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.02.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurosurgery, an intricate and dynamic surgical specialty, faces challenges in attracting medical graduates. Despite its potential appeal, a decreasing trend in medical students opting for surgical specialties, including neurosurgery, is noted. This study aims to assess European medical students' perceptions of neurosurgery, focusing on South-East Europe, and address concerns about the declining interest in this field. METHODS A comprehensive digital survey, comprising 33 questions, was distributed to 1115 medical students across 17 European countries. The survey, conducted over 9 months, gathered responses through European neurosurgical societies, the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS), and university channels. Statistical analysis utilized IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, presenting data through counts, proportions, and χ2 tests. RESULTS The study reveals that, over the survey period, 834 medical students completed the questionnaire, with a predominant representation from South-East Europe. While 43.2% of participants were considering a surgical career, neurosurgery emerged as the most preferred specialty (26.37%). Despite this interest, 80.2% reported insufficient knowledge about pursuing a neurosurgical career, with limited exposure during medical education. Concerns about work-life balance, heavy workload, and hierarchical structures were prominent among respondents. CONCLUSIONS The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address concerns influencing medical students' decisions regarding neurosurgery. Improving neurosurgical education, dispelling misconceptions, and creating a supportive work environment are crucial steps to attract and retain diverse talented individuals in neurosurgery. These efforts will be vital in narrowing the gap between the demand for neurosurgeons and the number of medical graduates entering the field, ensuring a sustainable future for this essential surgical specialty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysegul Esen Aydin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Arnavutkoy State Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Nurperi Gazioglu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Faculty, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Anastasia Tasiou
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stiliana Mihaylova
- Clinic of Neurosurgery, St. Ivan Rilski University Hospital, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Niina Salokorpi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland, and Research Unit of Clinical Neuroscience, Medical Research Center, Oulu University, Oulu, Finland
| | - Maria Karampouga
- Neurosurgery Department, Nicosia General Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Marike L D Broekman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Haaglanden Medical Center and Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Insa K Janssen
- Department of Neurosurgery, HôpitauxUniversitaires de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hulda B Magnadottir
- Department of Neurosurgery, Upper Valley Neurology Neurosurgery, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Teresa Somma
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ermira Pajaj
- Department of Neurosurgery, Spitali Rajonal Memorial Fier, Fier, Albania
| | | | - Pia Vayssiere
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ana Rodríguez-Hernández
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Universidad Autónoma, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Eleni Tsianaka
- Neurosurgery Department, International Hospital, Salmiya, Kuwait
| | - Gail Rosseau
- Department of Neurosurgery, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health SciencesWashington, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Mary Murphy
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, United Kingdom
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Bondok M, Bondok MS, Nguyen AXL, Law C, Nathoo N, Bakshi N, Ahuja N, Damji KF. Gender trends in match rate to surgical specialties in Canada: A retrospective study from 2003-2022. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300207. [PMID: 38598528 PMCID: PMC11006131 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Canada, there is a recognized underrepresentation of women in the field of surgery. However, the extent to which this trend applies across various surgical specialties is not well delineated. The aim of this study is to identify existing disparities and trends over time to inform the need for future interventions to make the match process more equitable for applicants. METHODS Data regarding surgical specialty applicants was extracted from the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS)'s 2003 to 2022 reports. RESULTS A total of 9,488 applicants ranked surgical specialties as their first choice from 2003-2022. Increases in the proportion of women applicants comparing periods 2003-2007 to 2018-2022 were significant for cardiac surgery (22% to 43%, p = 0.03), general surgery (46% to 60%, p<0.001), orthopedic surgery (23% to 35%, p<0.001), urology (23% to 38%, p<0.001), and all aggregated surgical specialties ('all surgery') (45% to 55%, p<0.001). An increase in the proportion of women applicants who matched over the same periods was observed for general surgery (+47% to 60%, p<0.001), orthopedic surgery (24% to 35%, p<0.01), urology (21% to 34%, p<0.001), and all surgery (46% to 54%, p<0.001). From 2003-2022, a lower match rate for women compared to men was observed for otolaryngology (0.60 v 0.69, p = 0.008), urology (0.61 v 0.72, p = 0.003), and all surgery (0.71 v 0.73, p = 0.038), while higher match rates were observed for ophthalmology (0.65 v 0.58, p = 0.04). No statistically significant differences in match rate were observed from 2018-2022. CONCLUSIONS While the proportion of women applicants to surgical specialties in Canada has been increasing, women remain underrepresented in several surgical specialties. This underrepresentation cannot be solely attributed to fewer women applying to these specialties, as women experience lower success rates when matching to specific surgical specialties. Further research is essential to identify and address the underlying causes of these disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Bondok
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mohamed S. Bondok
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Anne Xuan-Lan Nguyen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Christine Law
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Nawaaz Nathoo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nupura Bakshi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nina Ahuja
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Karim F. Damji
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Shakir M, Altaf A, Irshad HA, Ali EA, Khowaja AH, Shahzad A, Adil A, Qadri HM, Faisal Z, Enam SA. Gender Differences in Medical Students' Perception of Neurosurgery: A Cross-Sectional Study from Pakistan. World Neurosurg 2024; 183:5-13. [PMID: 38070737 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite 15,000 annual medical graduates, few choose neurosurgery, especially women. The scarcity of female neurosurgeons is a global concern, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Pakistan. This study focuses on gender-based differences in medical student perceptions of neurosurgery in Pakistan. METHODS A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted from March 6 to April 20, 2023, using a Web-based survey. Data collectors were recruited through an ambassadorship program, distributed evenly across all provinces. A questionnaire was used after a pilot study. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 and STATA 15. RESULTS A total of 2353 medical students participated in the study, of which 63.4% were female and 36.5% were male. Around 40.3% of women strongly agreed to the existence of potential gender bias in neurosurgery, in contrast to their corresponding male students, at 17.3%. Some of the highlighted deterring factors in pursuing neurosurgery as a career according to women include longer training duration (44.6%), poor work-life balance (41%), limited residency slots (50.6%), and limited exposure to neurosurgery (45.1%). Other factors included the high-intensity nature of training (33.6%), perceived gender bias (31.4%), competitive work environment (29.1%), complex surgical skills (38.6%), required level of medical knowledge (29.6%), and financial burden (33.9%). CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that female students are more likely to believe in the existence of potential gender bias in the field compared with their counterpart male participants, which highlights the graveness of the situation in view of the evident paucity of female neurosurgeons in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Shakir
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Ahmed Altaf
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Eisha Abid Ali
- University College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Akmal Shahzad
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Amna Adil
- Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | | | - Zainab Faisal
- Shalamar Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Syed Ather Enam
- Section of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
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Wani FA, Alanazi KM, Alblwan AS. Factors Affecting the Choice of Neurosurgery as a Future Career: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2024; 16:e52836. [PMID: 38406169 PMCID: PMC10884721 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Selecting a specialty is a very important and stressful decision that students must make, as it will have a lasting impact on their professional lives. Medical students could gain insight into a variety of specialties during their clinical years, especially the work environment in different specialties. Numerous factors can influence this decision, such as work-life balance, lifestyle, and gender differences. The goal of our study is to demonstrate the different factors, both attractive and deterrent, that influence neurosurgery selection as a future specialty among students. Also, we will consider the exposure-related geographical distribution of the neurosurgery field regarding conferences and workshops, as well as the availability of university professors and their impact on the interest of students in the specialty. Methods A cross-sectional study spanning from June 2023 to September 2023 was conducted among students at medical colleges across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. All medical students from the second medical year up to the internship were invited to take part in the study. Non-medical students, first-year medical students, and incomplete questionnaires were excluded. Employing a stratified random sampling technique, we ensured diverse representation, eventually gathering data from 1141 participants. Results The study involved a diverse group of 1141 medical students and interns, with an average age of 21.7 years. Among them, 683 (59.9%) were female. Approximately half of the participants, 572 (50.1%), express an interest in pursuing a career in neurosurgery, and a significant portion of respondents find neurosurgery appealing due to its challenging nature (50.9%). On the other hand, stress emerged as the most significant deterrent factor (50.3%). Among educational levels, interns, 39 (28.3%), showed the least interest, while second-year students, 193 (64.8%), exhibited the highest interest (p < 0.001*). The analysis revealed statistically significant gender differences in factors. Specifically, a higher percentage of females found "interested in neuroscience" to be the most attractive factor compared to males (18.2% vs. 15.5%, p < 0.001*). Regarding deterring factors, a greater percentage of males found "risk" as the most deterring factor compared to females (19.2% vs. 17.1%, p = 0.001*). Conclusion We found no significant age variation in the most attractive factors; however, significant gender differences in attractive and deterrent factors were observed. The "risk" associated with neurosurgery was the most deterring factor for students across different cumulative grade point average (CGPA) ranges and for students from the eastern and central areas. Our findings suggest that most factors are consistently attractive or deterring across different educational and clinical levels, emphasizing the stability of these perceptions throughout medical education. We propose innovative educational initiatives with increased faculty participation to implement the curricula with early exposure of students to neurosurgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farooq A Wani
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, SAU
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Anand A, Ibrahim IA, Kathayat P, Ansari A, Aggarwal Y, Kaur Wahi R, Satapathy P, Rustagi S. Need to address the gender disparities in neurosurgery in India. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:20-22. [PMID: 38222733 PMCID: PMC10783270 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ayush Anand
- B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal
- Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune
| | - Ismail A. Ibrahim
- Fenerbahçe Üniversitesi, Faculty of Health Sciences, Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Pr, Istanbul, Turkey
- Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune
| | - Priyangi Kathayat
- Smt NHL Municipal Medical College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
- Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune
| | - Ayesha Ansari
- Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha
- Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune
| | - Yash Aggarwal
- Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune
- Government Institute of Medical Sciences, Greater Noida
| | - Riddhpreet Kaur Wahi
- Global Consortium of Medical Education and Research, Pune
- Grant Government Medical College and Sir J.J Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, Maharashtra
| | - Prakasini Satapathy
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
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Efe IE, Çinkaya E, Kuhrt LD, Bruesseler MMT, Mührer-Osmanagic A. Neurosurgical Education Using Cadaver-Free Brain Models and Augmented Reality: First Experiences from a Hands-On Simulation Course for Medical Students. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1791. [PMID: 37893509 PMCID: PMC10608257 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Neurosurgery has been underrepresented in the medical school curriculum. Advances in augmented reality and 3D printing have opened the way for early practical training through simulations. We assessed the usability of the UpSurgeOn simulation-based training model and report first experiences from a hands-on neurosurgery course for medical students. Materials and Methods: We organized a two-day microneurosurgery simulation course tailored to medical students. On day one, three neurosurgeons demonstrated anatomical explorations with the help of life-like physical simulators (BrainBox, UpSurgeOn). The surgical field was projected onto large high-definition screens by a robotic-assisted exoscope (RoboticScope, BHS Technologies). On day two, the students were equipped with microsurgical instruments to explore the surgical anatomy of the pterional, temporal and endoscopic retrosigmoid approaches. With the help of the RoboticScope, they simulated five clipping procedures using the Aneurysm BrainBox. All medical students filled out a digital Likert-scale-based questionnaire to evaluate their experiences. Results: Sixteen medical students participated in the course. No medical students had previous experience with UpSurgeOn. All participants agreed that the app helped develop anatomical orientation. They unanimously agreed that this model should be part of residency training. Fourteen out of sixteen students felt that the course solidified their decision to pursue neurosurgery. The same fourteen students rated their learning experience as totally positive, and the remaining two rated it as rather positive. Conclusions: The UpSurgeOn educational app and cadaver-free models were perceived as usable and effective tools for the hands-on neuroanatomy and neurosurgery teaching of medical students. Comparative studies may help measure the long-term benefits of UpSurgeOn-assisted teaching over conventional resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim E. Efe
- Department of Neurosurgery, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Emre Çinkaya
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Sevilla, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Leonard D. Kuhrt
- Department of Traumatology and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Melanie M. T. Bruesseler
- Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 80539 Munich, Germany
- The GKT School of Medical Education, King’s College London, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Armin Mührer-Osmanagic
- Department of Orthopaedics and Neurosurgery, Schulthess Klinik, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland
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Dada OE, Haizel-Cobbina J, Ohonba E, Bukenya GW, Kitonga LM, Sebopelo LA, Nteranya DS, Annor E, Nkansah-Poku KAB, Umutoni A, Akilimali A, Chellunga ES, Awad AK, Djoutsop OM, Kanmounye US, Abu-Bonsrah N. Barriers Encountered Toward Pursuing a Neurosurgical Career: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Medical Students, Interns, and Junior Doctors in Africa. World Neurosurg 2022; 166:e388-e403. [PMID: 35840089 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Africa has an increased burden of neurosurgical diseases with an estimate of 1,986,392 neurosurgical cases, 108,824 neurosurgical case capacity, and 1,877,568 case deficits yearly. Literature suggests that about 8420 neurosurgeons are needed to fill this vast gap. The main objective of this study is to elucidate barriers encountered in pursuing neurosurgery training in the African context. METHODS A cross-sectional electronic survey, developed in English and subsequently translated into French, was utilized. This was disseminated among medical students, medical interns, and junior doctors in all 5 African regions. RESULTS A total of 491 responses were received from the following 5 African regions: West Africa (30.5%), East Africa (30.3%), Central Africa (18.1%), North Africa (11.8%), and Southern Africa (9.2%). Of the participants, 55.2% were men and 44.8% were women. Seventy-six percent of respondents were aware of the neurosurgery deficit in Africa. Barriers to pursuing neurosurgery included discouragement from others over lack of an "ideal personality" trait, culture/cultural beliefs as related to gender roles, lack of mentorship, inadequate neurosurgical training opportunities, poor health infrastructure for neurosurgical practice in Africa, poor patient outcomes, and challenges with work/life balance were some of the barriers highlighted to pursuing neurosurgical career on the continent. CONCLUSION Even with its robust population growth, Africa is not producing enough neurosurgeons to meet the demands of the population due to several barriers. Delineating these challenges and barriers represents an important step in developing sustainable mechanisms for recruitment, training, mentorship, and support of burgeoning African neurosurgeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olaoluwa Ezekiel Dada
- College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria; Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon.
| | - Joseline Haizel-Cobbina
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Efosa Ohonba
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Division of Neurosurgery, Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - George William Bukenya
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Lilian Mwende Kitonga
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lorraine Arabang Sebopelo
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Daniel Safari Nteranya
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Faculty of Medicine, Official University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Eugene Annor
- College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee, USA
| | | | - Alice Umutoni
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Aymar Akilimali
- Faculty of Medicine, Official University of Bukavu, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Edwin Samwel Chellunga
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; The Benjamin Mkapa Hospital, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Ahmed K Awad
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Olga Mbougo Djoutsop
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Faculty of Medicine, Universite Technologique Bel Campus, Kinshasa, DR Congo
| | | | - Nancy Abu-Bonsrah
- Research Department, Association of Future African Neurosurgeons, Yaounde, Cameroon; Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Alnaami I, Ahmad MT, Khan MA, Amer KA, Alsaedan A, Alanazi A, Alkhonizy S, Alamri A. Perceptions of Neurosurgery among Medical Students and Interns: A National Cross-Sectional Study. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58081120. [PMID: 36013587 PMCID: PMC9412531 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58081120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neurosurgery is considered one of the most admired surgical specializations. Still, as evidenced by observations over the years, it is not amongst the top choices of medical students in Saudi Arabia. This study will help in understanding the perception and attitudes of medical students and interns toward the neurosurgery specialization, which will aid in developing strategies to increase the interest of undergraduates in neurosurgery specialization and bridge the human resource gap in this vital specialty. Objectives: This study aimed to assess perceptions, attitudes, and gender differences of medical students and interns toward neurosurgery. The influence of demographic factors on perceptions of neurosurgery of interns and senior medical students in Saudi Arabia was also investigated. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study on a convenience sample of medical students (clinical years) and interns studying in different colleges of medicine in Saudi Arabia. A total of 1014 responses were included in this study (518 males and 496 females). The questionnaire comprised of two parts: the first part carried general descriptive questions, while the second part had 24-item Likert scale-based questions. Results: Around 40% of medical students and 26% of interns agreed or strongly agreed to the statement ‘I would consider a career in neurosurgery. Around 70% of both interns and students agreed or strongly agreed with the statement ‘Huge prestige is attached to neurosurgery’. The responses to the statement ‘Neurosurgery is a male specialty’ was significantly different between genders, as 36.5% of the male respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the statement while just 12.5% of the females responded likewise (p = 0.000). Only 23% of participants reported having completed a rotation in neurosurgery. About 44.7% of respondents were interested in taking an elective rotation in neurosurgery, while the remaining respondents (55.3%) responded with a negative answer. Only 23% of participants had completed an undergraduate rotation in neurosurgery. More males (65.3%) agreed or strongly agreed with the statement ‘Work as a neurosurgery specialist can impede family life as compared to females (57.5%), which was highly significant (p = 0.000). More medical students (45.1%) responded in the agreement or strong agreement in response to the statement’ Neurosurgery should be a compulsory rotation during internship’ as compared to interns (25.8%). Around 65% of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that teachers/seniors have a great influence on students’ specialization choices. Around 67% of the respondents foresaw a purely clinical role for themselves after graduation, while 17% were interested in a clinical–academician role. Conclusions: The study reflected a generally positive attitude towards neurosurgery amongst medical students and interns. Interest in neurosurgery as a specialization can be strengthened by enhancing the exposure of students and interns to the specialty. Teachers and seniors can be useful influencers to motivate students to consider neurosurgery specialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Alnaami
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: or
| | - Mohammad Tauheed Ahmad
- Department of Medical Education, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Abid Khan
- Department of Medical Education, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled A. Amer
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdulaziz Alanazi
- College of Medicine, Alqassim University, Alqassim 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Alkhonizy
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Alamri
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
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