GPHC admits it does not have an experienced Neuro-interventional Radiologist, specialised supplies required for brain aneurysm surgeries

Aug 28, 2024 Letters

Dear Editor,

The administration of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has taken note of the article titled “A tale of two health systems” published on August 26, 2024, by Kaieteur News. We wish to clarify our position regarding the hospital’s capability to perform surgeries for cerebral aneurysms and address the concerns raised about the state of our healthcare system.

Surgery for cerebral aneurysms, commonly referred to as brain aneurysm surgery, is among the most technical and challenging neurosurgical procedures. Whether conducted through open surgery or endovascular techniques, these procedures demand a highly specialized surgical setting to ensure positive outcomes. Specifically, endovascular treatment for brain aneurysms requires the expertise of an experienced Neuro-interventional Radiologist, highly skilled Neurosurgeon, and access to specialized supplies such as cerebral catheters, stents for cerebral angioplasty, titanium coils, and flow divertors. A well-equipped CATH lab is also essential for these minimally invasive interventions.

Currently, within our local health sector—both public and private—there is no availability of an experienced Neuro-interventional Radiologist nor the specialized supplies necessary to perform these procedures. In the private sector, care is often provided on a case-by-case basis through arrangements with overseas Neuro-interventional Radiologists who collaborate with local neurosurgical teams to carry out these intricate surgeries.

While GPHC possesses a CATH lab and qualified Neurosurgeons, we acknowledge that we do not have an experienced Neuro-interventional Radiologist, nor the specialized supplies required for brain aneurysm surgeries at this time. However, we want to assure the public that GPHC is actively working to address this gap. A Neuro-interventional Radiologist has recently returned from training and is expected to play a crucial role in advancing our neurosurgical capabilities in the future. In addition, we are currently in communication with one of our international partners, Northwell Health, to explore the possibility of bringing in a Neuro-interventional Radiologist to Guyana so that this critical surgery can be performed at GPHC.

GPHC remains committed to providing the highest standard of care to all patients and to continuously improving our capabilities to meet the needs of the public. We appreciate the opportunity to clarify these matters and reaffirm our dedication to advancing healthcare in Guyana.

Sincerely,

Stacy Peters

Manager, Strategic Planning & Communications ag/Public Relations Officer

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

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Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Health, Manager, Stacy Peters, Strategic Planning & Communications ag/Public Relations Officer

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