Description:

Hydrocephalus is one of the most common, treatable causes of neurological disability and death in the developing world. When identified early and treated effectively, the buildup of fluid in the brain can be prevented, improving the chances for a normal and productive life. With a population of 10 million and only a handful of surgeons providing any neurosurgical care, Haiti has neurosurgical needs that are grossly underserved. Through the pioneering efforts of John Ragheb, MD, FAANS, FACS, Haiti Healthy Kids (www.haitihealthykids.org) has provided surgical treatment for hydrocephalus since 2003 and now is beginning a training program to teach local medical professionals how to care for these children. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy is the procedure of choice for hydrocephalus in the developing world, with more than 500 surgeries performed to date. With the efforts of neurosurgeons from across the U.S. and funding from private citizens, the goal of creating a sustainable neurosurgical training program in Haiti is coming to fruition. For more information, read this month’s Education department, “Teach a Man to Fish: Developing a Neurosurgical Training Program in Haiti.”