Neonatal surgery in Sub Saharan Africa: challenges and solutions

Abstract

Background: The last two decades have witnessed a gradual attempt at solving the manpower problems facing neonatal surgical care in many parts ofSub - Saharan Africa (SSA). Unfortunately this has not translated to a reduction in the very high morbidity and mortality facing neonatal surgical care as there arc othe r challenge s bedeviling the practice of neonatal surgery in the region. Purpose: This review examined these challenges which include poor obstetric care leading to late presentation, lack of appropriate equipment and facilities, poor funding and lack of awareness about availability of neonatal surgical scrviccs as well as proffer solutions to overcome the challenges in order to minimize the high morbidity and mortality. Conclusion: Adequate funding should be provided by the government and other funding agencies for proper training of professionals involved in the care o f the surgical neonate, provision of requisite equipment and facilities, good obstetric care and advocacy to improve awareness as well as cncourage early presentation