Publications by authors named "Mabel Banson"
Objective: Traumatic spinal injury (TSI) involves diverse etiologies, posing different risks among patient populations worldwide. Discrepancies in TSI treatment and outcomes between high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries highlight the critical necessity for tailored management approaches for this global challenge. This study delves into the presentation, management, and outcomes of TSI in Africa.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground And Objectives: Nearly one-third of individuals with epilepsy have drug-resistant epilepsy, treated most effectively with surgery. This study aims to discuss the demographic profile, surgical access, and strategies used in drug-resistant epilepsy in Africa.
Methods: A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Web of Science in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.
Objective: Craniosynostosis is a congenital skull deformity that impacts development and quality of life of children if left untreated. This study aimed to evaluate literature regarding presentation, treatment and outcomes of craniosynostosis in Africa.
Methods: A systematic review of the literature using PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
Article Synopsis
- This study investigates the prevalence and treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus in Africa, highlighting under-researched aspects in this region.
- A systematic review included 74 studies covering over 12,000 pediatric patients, revealing key demographics such as a majority being male (53.8%) and commonly presenting with macrocephaly (80.2%).
- The findings show that ventriculoperitoneal shunting (83.1%) and endoscopic third ventriculostomy (54.1%) are prevalent surgical interventions, with notable postoperative complications like infections and a revision rate of 9% for shunt patients.
Background: Gender disparities remain a significant issue, particularly impacting African women in the field of neurosurgery.
Methods: Databases, articles, and perspectives were reviewed to identify challenges faced by African Women in Neurosurgery (AWIN), and explore solutions for recruitment, retention, and career advancement of AWIN.
Results: In 1982, Africa saw its first female neurosurgeon, with the first female president of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies appointed 4 null decades later.
Background: Ensuring equitable access to treatments and therapies in the constantly evolving field of neuro-oncology is an imperative global health issue. With its unique demographic, cultural, socioeconomic, and infrastructure characteristics, Sub-Saharan Africa faces distinct challenges. This literature review highlights specific barriers to neuro-oncology care in the region and explores potential opportunities for enhancing access.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFArticle Synopsis
- The study aimed to evaluate brain tumor programs in Asia and Africa, proposing both short- and long-term strategies for improvement.
- A survey involving 27 questions assessed various components of these programs, scoring them on surgery, oncology, neuropathology, research, training, and finances, categorizing countries into six levels.
- Results showed that most countries had level III programs, with surgery, neuropathology, and oncology being the strongest areas, but highlighted a significant need for enhancement in neuro-oncology resources, especially in nations lacking neurosurgeons.
Article Synopsis
- The study evaluates the neurosurgical literature in Ghana, highlighting the need for more comprehensive research to address various disease challenges and opportunities in the field.
- A total of 927 articles were reviewed, with only 66 qualifying for the analysis; the majority were retrospective cohort studies focused on non-infectious spinal pathologies, with a notable absence of randomized controlled trials.
- The findings suggest that improving the research landscape in Ghana can be achieved through enhanced funding, the creation of clinical databases, better research training, and stronger collaborative efforts in the neurosurgical community.
Background: Low- and middle-income countries experience numerous challenges in the provision of neurosurgical care. However, limited information exists on the neurosurgical workforce and the constraints under which care is delivered in Ghana, West Africa.
Methods: A 19-item survey assessing neurosurgical workforce, infrastructure, and education was administered to Ghanaian consultant neurosurgeons and neurosurgeon trainees between November 8, 2021, and January 20, 2022.