Publication:

Pattern and outcomes of neurosurgical interventions in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria: a retrospective study

Background Neurosurgical practice in resource-limited settings is often shaped by a high burden of trauma and delayed presentation. This study evaluated the indications, procedures, and outcomes of neurosurgical interventions in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.

Methods This was a retrospective hospital-based study which covered an 18-month period from July 2024 to December 2025. A total of 86 patients who underwent neurosurgical procedures were included. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, clinical indications, types of procedures, postoperative complications, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results Most patients were males (67.4%), with the highest proportion aged 18-40 years (39.5%). Over half presented through the emergency unit (53.5%). Traumatic brain injury was the most common indication for surgery (34.9%), followed by spinal cord compression (16.3%) and intracranial tumors (14.0%). The most frequently performed procedures were burr hole drainage (23.3%) and laminectomy (23.3%), followed by craniotomy (20.9%). Postoperative complications were observed in 39.5% of patients, with surgical site infection (10.5%) and seizures (8.1%) being the most common. At discharge, 62.8% of patients improved, while mortality was 14.0%. Good recovery on the Glasgow Outcome Scale was recorded in 46.5% of cases. No statistically significant association was found between procedure type and mortality outcome (χ²=1.79, p=0.878).

Conclusions Neurosurgical interventions in Ado-Ekiti are predominantly driven by trauma-related conditions, with generally favorable outcomes. Improving early presentation and perioperative care may further enhance patient outcomes.