CMIPD delivered a two-day specialist lecture programme at the Department of Surgery, University College Hospital, Ibadan. The sessions focused on multidisciplinary cancer care, breast reconstruction and opportunities for future clinical exchange.
The first lecture examined how multidisciplinary team working can improve clinical decision-making, patient outcomes and professional collaboration. The second focused on breast reconstruction, aesthetic options and locally manageable approaches for patients undergoing mastectomy.
Lecture Highlights
Day 1: MDT Approach to Cancer Management
On Monday, 25th November, Dr. Olubowale delivered a lecture at 4:00 PM in the Department of Surgery seminar room. The session was well attended by key stakeholders, including the Provost of the College of Medicine, the Head of the Department of Surgery, consultants, surgical residents, and medical students.
Key takeaways from the lecture emphasized that:
- The MDT approach improves patient outcomes, enhances clinical decision-making, and ensures holistic cancer management.
- Collaborative care leads to better patient experiences and improved working conditions for healthcare professionals.
- UCH should explore ways to integrate MDT practice into its existing healthcare system to enhance cancer treatment.
Day 2: Breast Reconstruction in Cancer Management
On Tuesday, 26th November, the focus shifted to breast reconstruction. The lecture, held at 2:00 PM in the seminar room of the Department of Surgery, was attended by consultants, surgical residents, and the Head of the Department of Plastic Surgery, particularly those interested in breast reconstruction and aesthetic surgery.
Dr. Olubowale highlighted the following key points:
- Breast reconstruction should be an integral part of cancer treatment discussions for patients undergoing mastectomies.
- Oncoplastic techniques can help extend breast-conserving surgery, reducing the need for mastectomies in selected patients.
- The importance of exploring locally available reconstruction options while seeking external training opportunities.
Future Collaborations and Next Steps
Beyond the lectures, a meeting was held with the Deputy CMAC to discuss a potential Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CMIPD and UCH. Additionally, there was consensus on:
- Implementing the MDT approach at UCH to improve cancer management.
- Exploring training opportunities for Nigerian surgical residents through an exchange program in the UK, offering hands-on experience in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery.