Publication
The World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies Young Neurosurgeons Survey (Part I): Demographics, Resources, and Education
Journal Paper/Review - May 19, 2020
Gnanakumar Sujit, Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael, Al-Ahmari Ahmed Nasser, Al-Jehani Hosam, Nicolosi Federico, Samprón Nicolás, Adelson P David, Servadei Franco, Esene Ignatius N, Al-Habib Amro, Kolias Angelos G, Laeke Tsegazeab, Stienen Martin N., Abou El Ela Bourquin Bilal, Robertson Faith C, Solla Davi J Fontoura, Karekezi Claire, Vaughan Kerry, Garcia Roxanna M, Hassani Fahd Derkaoui, Alamri Alexander, Höhne Julius, Mentri Nesrine, World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies Young Neurosurgeons Committee
Units
PubMed
Doi
Citation
Type
Journal
Publication Date
Issn Electronic
Pages
Brief description/objective
Background
Providing a comprehensive and effective neurosurgical service requires adequate numbers of well-trained, resourced, and motivated neurosurgeons. The survey aims to better understand 1) the demographics of young neurosurgeons worldwide; 2) the challenges in training and resources that they face; 3) perceived barriers; and 4) needs for development.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study in which a widely disseminated online survey (April 2018-November 2019) was used to procure a nonprobabilistic sample from current neurosurgical trainees and those within 10 years of training. Data were grouped by World Bank income classifications and analyzed using χ tests because of its categorical nature.
Results
There were 1294 respondents, with 953 completed responses included in the analysis. Of respondents, 45.2% were from high-income countries (HICs), 23.2% from upper-middle-income countries, 26.8% lower-middle-income countries, and 4.1% from low-income countries. Most respondents (79.8%) were male, a figure more pronounced in lower-income groups. Neuro-oncology was the most popular in HICs and spinal surgery in all other groups. Although access to computed tomography scanning was near universal (98.64%), magnetic resonance imaging access decreased to 66.67% in low-income countries, compared with 98.61% in HICs. Similar patterns were noted with access to operating microscopes, image guidance systems, and high-speed drills. Of respondents, 71.4% had dedicated time for neurosurgical education.
Conclusions
These data confirm and quantify disparities in the equipment and training opportunities among young neurosurgeons practicing in different income groups. We hope that this study will act as a guide to further understand these differences and target resources to remedy them.