Dr. Mabel Banson's Experience with WINS X mission:BRAIN Scholarship

Dr. Mabel Banson is making a remarkable impact as a WINS x Mission:Brain Scholar!

Here’s what she had to say about the experience so far:

🧠  "The mentorship gave me a direct imbibe of knowledge and clinical decision-making and leadership skills along with the exposure to current technology in neurosurgery.It also reaffirmed feasibility, and guided my decisions, on what I can achieve and establish, to improve neurosurgical services and patient care at home.With the knowledge and exposure gained, I will be able to lecture residents and medical students on topics such as current innovations and practices with better background experience than previous.

On the research front, it has paved the way for great research collaborations on topical issues and an expanded exposure to the international platform as well as more publication opportunities.  It has assisted me in finding better ways of improving research attitude among my colleagues at home including, but not limited to having research forums, organizing recognition awards and form core dedicated research personnel.  Also, it strengthened my resolve in continuing the work I have done so far, with new ideas to foster and create a research environment in neurosurgery in Ghana.

With respect to neurosurgical skill, it has extended my armamentarium on the scope of clinical decisions and surgical options. I have learnt some approaches that I can add to my surgical skills. I was exposed to conditions that are seen more frequently at UF than I encounter in my home facility such as Chiari Malformations, Non-congenital encephaloceles and, also, to procedures we do not perform or have limited exposure such as Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy, Focused Ultrasound Ablation of the Thalamus, Deep Brain Stimulation, awake craniotomies, Anterior Lumber Interbody Fusion, Extreme Lumbar Interbody Fusion and Spinal Cord Stimulator Insertions.

I Interacted with renowned neurosurgeons, neuropathologists, neuroradiologists, neuro-otologists and neuro-intensivists who are ever ready to discuss difficult cases and share ideas on topics of interest. I had some collaborations with the UF global health team during my stay.

There are also senior and junior colleagues I met who want to experience work in an LMIC, be involved with management of conditions more commonly encountered in LMICs and also experience the rich cultural landscape of Ghana; and are currently preparing to visit Ghana.

All in all, this scholarship experience has been phenomenal. This, I believe, was due to the fact that I had the most wonderful mentor. Truly, every neurosurgeon should have this experience."

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Mabel's drive, vision, and dedication to advancing care reflect the very heart of the WINS x Mission:Brain program. We’re honored to stand behind the future of global neurosurgery. 💙

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