The History and Current Status of Neurosurgery in Iraq

The roots of modern neurosurgery in Iraq can be traced back to the dawn of civilization, the Mesopotamian culture. Archaeological evidence has provided us with new insights regarding Mesopotamian medical practices. Back then, 2 forms of medicine coexisted: therapeutic and divinatory, which were practiced by the Asu and Asipu physicians, respectively. Despite their lack of knowledge of the human anatomy and physiology, our ancestors performed elementary surgical procedures that were strictly regulated by the Code of Hammurabi. In present-day Iraq, neurosurgery is facing many challenges; the specialty is limping with an inadequate number of neurosurgeons who strive to perform under conditions of political, social, and economic instability. Nevertheless, nondismissible progress has been made in recent years propelled by the efforts of our local neurosurgeons.