Neurosurgery in Tanzania: a discussion of culture, socioeconomics, and humanitarians

Abstract

Objective: To elucidate the progress of neurosurgical practices in Tanzania, taking into account humanitarian, socioeconomic, and geographic influences.

Method: Articles, records, and historical texts were consulted to establish a timeline and history of neurosurgery in Tanzania.

Results: Reulen, a German neurosurgeon, was integral to the development of sustainable neurosurgical services in Tanzania. By training Tanzanians who returned to their country to practice, Reulen helped to establish a continuity of care and legacy on which future Tanzanian surgeons could build. Subsequently, as neurosurgical services were integrated into the Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute, surgeons found a hospital to call home and a place to focus their efforts. Neurosurgical services have now been offered to the Tanzanian people for >40 years, a direct consequence of international influences coupled with certain extraordinary Tanzanian physicians.

Conclusions: Neurosurgery in Tanzania and Africa more generally has a long history; however, it was not until more recent efforts of certain local pioneers and educational advisors abroad that modernization occurred. The progress of the past 50 years is substantial and with continued efforts advances will continue to be made.