More Lab Simulations - Less Brain Complications: Prospects from the First Neurosurgery Lab in Iraq.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION\nDue to the specialized training requirements for microneurosurgery, training and skill acquisition are challenging requirements to meet. This problem is compounded in low- and middle-income nations, where neurosurgery has numerous human and financial resource constraints. A temporary solution may be provided by low-cost laboratories that are adaptive to local needs.\n\n\nMETHODS\nThe HOZ NeuroSurgery LAB is a non-profit facility dedicated to microneurosurgery education and skills training. The lab was established in June 2015. It is housed at Baghdad s Neurosurgery Teaching Hospital. The lab operates under the motto More Laboratory Simulation - Less Brain Complications. The facility s fundamental infrastructure consists of a relatively inexpensive microscope, indigenous locally created training equipment, and animal-based models.\n\n\nRESULTS\nSince its inception, the lab has functioned as a hub for resident education and microneurosurgery service in the country, in addition to contributing to the speciality s academic output in the nation. The lab is directly responsible for teaching four vascular neurosurgeons who are currently directing the nation s first organized neurovascular service. Additionally, it has delivered 53 microneurosurgery skills courses, coordinated eight student neurosurgery elective cycles with a total of 532 participants, and published approximately 70 research articles.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nOur experience may serve as a model for other low- and middle-income countries interested in utilizing the principle of doing more with less to overcome some of the challenges associated with microsneurosugry in these regions of the world.