Visting Scholar, UNC and Msc. Candidate, HMS University of North Carolina(UNC)/ Harvard Medical School(HMS)
Introduction: Global neurosurgery is an interdisciplinary field that combines neurosurgery and public health to address the substantial gap in essential neurosurgical care worldwide. Annually, over 5 million necessary surgeries go unperformed, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In response, academic centers, nonprofit organizations, and neurosurgical societies have progressed from advocacy to implementing initiatives aimed at capacity building, policy development, and expanding the neurosurgical workforce.
Methods: We will review existing literature on global neurosurgery training, public health partnerships, and fellowship models. Our review will focus on studies, reviews, and guideline papers that address global neurosurgery training needs, resource management, advocacy, and partnership building. In addition, we will gather insights from global neurosurgery leaders, educators, and fellowship alumni of some of the existing global neurosurgery programs.
Results: The guide’s recommendations offer practical steps for trainees to maximize their fellowship experiences, develop essential skills, and actively engage in impactful global health initiatives. Following a model used by Castro et al. for neuro-oncology, we provide pre-fellowship, fellowship, and post-fellowship recommendations specifically tailored for global neurosurgery. These recommendations will support trainees in navigating the complexities of global neurosurgery while contributing to capacity building and sustainable development.
Conclusion : This guide will serve as a valuable resource for trainees and other professionals dedicated to reducing neurosurgical disparities worldwide.
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