Challenges and Suggested Solutions for Functional Neurosurgery Practitioners and Patients in Saudi Arabia: Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the challenges encountered by functional neurosurgery practitioners in Saudi Arabia and identify potential solutions to address these challenges. Beyond identifying these challenges, the study explicitly aims to propose viable solutions that can alleviate the observed concerns. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among full practicing functional neurosurgery practitioners practicing in Saudi Arabia between January 2022 and March 2023. A total of 412 functional neurosurgery practitioners from all regions participated in the study. Additionally, a survey was conducted among 1045 patients who underwent functional neurosurgery in Saudi Arabia during the study period. The questionnaire included questions on the challenges faced by functional neurosurgery practitioners and patients in Saudi Arabia, as well as potential solutions to address these challenges. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted to identify previous research on this topic. Results: The study found that practitioners faced significant challenges related to a lack of specialized training programs, inadequate funding, and limited access to advanced technology and equipment. Specifically, 37.9% of practitioners reported that limited access to advanced technology and equipment limited the types of procedures they could perform, while 28.6% reported that it increased the risk of complications. The shortage of qualified staff (34.7%) and lack of standardized protocols (39.6%) were also identified as barriers to successful practice. On the patient side, challenges included limited access to information and support (not specified), inadequate communication with practitioners, and financial burden. Discussion: The findings of this study suggest that improving the quality of functional neurosurgery in Saudi Arabia requires addressing these challenges. Several potential solutions were proposed, including the establishment of specialized training programs, increased funding for research and equipment, and the development of standardized protocols and regulations to enhance the quality of care. Additionally, improving patient education, communication, and support can enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction. Promoting international collaborations and partnerships with experienced centers and neurosurgeons can further improve the practice of functional neurosurgery in Saudi Arabia. Conclusion: The study identified significant challenges faced by functional neurosurgery practitioners and patients in Saudi Arabia and proposed several potential solutions to address these challenges. These findings can serve as a starting point for improving the practice of functional neurosurgery in Saudi Arabia, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of life. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of these proposed solutions in addressing the challenges faced by functional neurosurgery practitioners and patients in Saudi Arabia.