Experts Seek Stronger ICU System at ICCSN in Enugu
President Osinaike praises medical practice in Enugu
President of the Intensive and Critical Care Society of Nigeria (I‑CCSN), Prof. Babatunde Babasola Osinaike, has described Enugu as the centre of excellence for cardiothoracic surgery in Nigeria because the first open-heart surgery in the country was successfully performed at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, in 1974.
Prof Osinaike stated this at the 10th Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting, of the Intensive and Critical Care Society of Nigeria (I‑CCSN), held in Enugu.
He explained that the professional body plays a key role in advancing critical care medicine in Nigeria and used the Enugu gathering to build capacity and raise awareness, particularly on the management of cardiac related conditions within the healthcare system.
While officially declaring the conference open, Prof. Samuel Ohaegbulam shared a personal experience from earlier in his career when he performed a surgery at a time the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was not yet incorporated into the healthcare system.
He described the challenges faced during such procedures and emphasized the urgent need to strengthen critical care services and advocated the recruitment of non-medical personnel to support healthcare professionals under supervision, to bridge the gap created by brain drain.
Delivering the keynote address, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr. Jonathan Nwiloh stressed the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach in addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges. He explained that the ICU plays a pivotal role in saving lives and improving patient outcomes, especially in cases involving complex surgeries and emergencies.
Dr. Nwiloh further called for increased investment in infrastructure and training to ensure that ICUs across the country are well equipped and efficiently managed.
However, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Dr. Paul Ufoegbunam, said the two-day event has exposed participants to new insights and broadened the knowledge of practitioners. He acknowledged the vital role of the society in advancing quality healthcare delivery in the country.
Dr. Ufoegbunam added that such gatherings are essential for continuous professional development and for fostering collaboration among healthcare stakeholders.
The event had as its theme, “Cardiac and Critical Care,” and featured sub-themes such as Cost of ICU Treatment in Nigeria, Haemodynamic Monitoring in ICU, and Workforce Challenges in Critical Care.