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Feb 19, 2023Article Details
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Main Article Content
Establishing high-tech surgical procedures in the Limpopo Academic Complex, Polokwane, South Africa
Abstract
Background. The two hospitals comprising the Limpopo Academic Complex are the only referral institutions for Limpopo Province, which is the fifth most populated province of South Africa. The Department of General Surgery has a policy of establishing high-tech surgical procedures to improve patient care.
Objectives. To review the model of establishing high-tech surgical procedures in the Limpopo Academic Complex.
Methods. The Department of General Surgery followed the DIRA model (D = Directive, I = Informative, R = Reconfiguration, A = Appraisal), which is dynamic and continuously evolving. The high-tech surgical procedures performed after a departmental workshop in January 2022, at which the DIRA model was conceptualised, are included in this survey.
Results. There were 48 laparoscopic procedures performed during the period 23 February - 8 June 2022, and 13 interventional endoscopy procedures performed during the period 10 January - 31 May 2022, at Pietersburg Hospital, which is part of the Limpopo Academic Complex.
Conclusion. We strongly advocate use of the DIRA model, and believe that our experience may be useful to others seeking to establish high-tech surgical procedures in rural settings.
