Facing the challenges of gynaecological endoscopic surgical practice in Nigeria: A review

Abstract

Background: The scope of gynaecological endoscopy in Nigeria is expanding as more experience is gained with training and collaborations. However, this advancement is limited by multi-faceted challenges, especially in our sub region. Objectives: To evaluate the experiences and challenges of gynaecologic endoscopic surgical practice in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: An electronic literature search of all articles published on gynaecologic endoscopic surgery in Nigeria between 1984 and 2023 was conducted using High wire, Google, Google scholar, PubMed, Hinari, Web of Science and Springer Link. All relevant peer-reviewed articles and publications were identified, retrieved, and reviewed. Telephone and face-to-face interviews with Endoscopic surgeons from public and private institutions across the country were conducted as it related to challenges and experiences of practice. Data was collated in a pre-structured spreadsheet and analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Results are presented as frequency tables and percentages. Results: The study identified lack of public awareness, socio-cultural, economic, low budgetary allocation to healthcare, decline in national infrastructure, conflict, and insecurity as non-institutional challenges. The institutional challenges reported were limited number of public institutions offering gynaecological endoscopic services, with practice more in private hospitals. Conclusion: Gynaecological endoscopic practice is largely suboptimal due to limited facilities and personnel, as well as a lack of political will. Efforts should be made to address these challenges and to proffer potential solutions that will improve healthcare delivery to women.