Bridging the Global Technology Gap in Neurosurgery: Disparities in Access to Advanced Tools for Brain Tumor Resection.

Abstract

Background and objectives: The advent of advanced technologies has brought unprecedented precision and efficacy to neurosurgical procedures for brain tumor resection. Despite the remarkable progress, disparities in technology access across different nations persist, creating significant challenges in providing equitable neurosurgical care. The purpose of the following work was to comprehensively analyze the existing disparities in access to innovative neurosurgical technologies and the impact of such disparities on patient outcomes and research. We seek to shed light on the extent of the problem, the underlying causes, and propose strategies for mitigating these disparities.

Methods: A systematic review of published articles, including clinical studies, reports, and healthcare infrastructure assessments, was conducted to gather data on the availability and utilization of advanced neurosurgical technologies in various countries.

Results: Disparities in technology access in neurosurgery are evident, with high-income countries benefiting from widespread implementation, while low- and middle-income countries face significant challenges in technology adoption. These disparities contribute to variations in surgical outcomes and patient experiences. The root causes of these disparities encompass financial constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient training and expertise.

Conclusion: Disparities in access to advanced neurosurgical technology remain a critical concern in global neurosurgery. Bridging this gap is essential to ensure that all patients, regardless of their geographic location, can benefit from the advancements in neurosurgical care. A concerted effort involving governments, healthcare institutions, and the international community is required to achieve this goal, advancing the quality of care for patients with brain tumors worldwide.