Surgeons across the country have highlighted the critical shortage of surgical equipment in health facilities located in suburban areas, emphasizing the urgent need for government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to intervene.
In commemoration of the 2024 Surgery Day and the Prof. Ewan Alufohai Lecture Series, organised by the Department of Surgery at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) and Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Edo State, the surgeons convened to discuss the theme ‘Lassa fever and the Nigerian surgeon: New insights and lessons.’
Dr. Ernest Udefiagbon, a consultant paediatric surgeon and Head of Surgery at ISTH and AAU, lamented that the lack of surgical equipment has forced some surgeons to leave, hindering their ability to provide adequate treatment.
He emphasized the necessity of equipping tertiary centers in rural settings to facilitate complex surgeries previously restricted to major hospitals.
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Dr. Udefiagbon cited specific examples, such as the absence of facilities for open-heart procedures in cardio-thoracic centers, leading to the relocation of skilled surgeons abroad due to limited resources.
Similarly, Dr. Emmanuel Esezobor, a consultant plastic surgeon at ISTH, highlighted the hospital’s role in treating viral haemorrhagic fever cases and complex surgical conditions.
Despite serving multiple regions and treating patients from across Africa, the hospital struggles with insufficient equipment and manpower for critical surgeries.
Dr. Esteem Tagar, a Consultant General Surgeon at ISTH, echoed the need for government and NGO support to enhance healthcare delivery.
He emphasized the importance of investing in surgical theatres, wards, and infrastructure to meet the growing demand for specialized surgical services.
In conclusion, the surgeons emphasized the vital role of ISTH in providing surgical solutions and called for comprehensive support to bolster rural healthcare facilities, alleviate the burden on urban hospitals, and enhance the quality of surgical care nationwide.
They urged stakeholders to prioritize training, equipment provision, and infrastructure development to achieve world-class surgical standards.
