More Laboratory Simulations-Fewer Brain Complications: Prospects from the First Neurosurgery Laboratory in Iraq.

Background: The intensive training requirements needed to achieve the requisiste microneurosurgical milestones makes proper training and skill acquisition a challenge to the novice neurosurgeon. This problem is compounded in low- and middle-income nations, where neurosurgery is subject to a myriad of human and financial resource constraints. A temporary solution may be provided by low-cost laboratories that are adaptive to local needs.

The History and Current Status of Neurosurgery in Iraq.

The roots of modern neurosurgery in Iraq can be traced back to the dawn of civilization, the Mesopotamian culture. Archaeological evidence has provided us with new insights regarding Mesopotamian medical practices. Back then, 2 forms of medicine coexisted: therapeutic and divinatory, which were practiced by the Asu and Asipu physicians, respectively.