Current State of the Neurotrauma Registry Implementation in Africa (NEUTRIA STUDY) and Challenges.

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) data in Africa remain limited, underscoring the need for a robust neurotrauma registry. This study evaluates the availability, implementation, and challenges of the Neurotrauma Registry in Africa (NEUTRIA) and provides recommendations for developing a continent-wide TBI registry.

METHODS

An e-survey was distributed via Google Forms to neurosurgeons and neurosurgical trainees across Africa from November 1 to December 10, 2024. From the 54 African countries, 81.5% (n = 44) responded. Ninety-seven responses were recorded for 91 (93.8%) inclusion from 39 (72.2%) African countries. Statistical analysis was performed using JAMOVI 3.2.0.

RESULTS

Neurosurgical centers were unevenly distributed, with 47.3% of respondents reporting 3-5 centers across 21 countries. Most centers (75.8%) served public and private systems, while 22.0% were exclusively public. Paper-based registries for TBI and traumatic spinal cord injury were used in 79.1% of centers, while 46.2% employed electronic systems, with Excel being the most common platform. Seven countries (Tanzania, Mozambique, Egypt, Rwanda, Cameroon, Zambia, and Uganda) had national registries, each with variable patient volumes. Key challenges included administrative burdens, material and staffing shortages, time constraints, and limited awareness about the registry's importance. Financial support from governments and nongovernment organizations was crucial for implementing national registries and improving data collection and neurotrauma care across the continent.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the uneven distribution of neurotrauma care and African registries. Although progress is evident, significant barriers hinder widespread implementation. Expanding financial support and addressing systemic challenges is critical for advancing data collection and improving neurotrauma care continent-wide.