The University Clinical Center Tuzla is currently hosting the Eighth School of Obstetric Anesthesia as part of its ongoing collaboration with the American organization Kybele, which is dedicated to improving childbirth conditions globally. This program is co-organized by the Association of Medical Doctors, Anesthesiologists-Reanimatologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Medical Chamber of Tuzla Canton.
On this occasion, distinguished experts in obstetric anesthesia, Dr. Victor Tregubov, Anesthesia Consultant at the University Hospital Queen Elizabeth in Scotland, and Dr. Karina Jakubowska, Pediatric Anesthesia Consultant at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People in Edinburgh, are leading sessions. During their stay, the American team of doctors will conduct a five-day workshop to introduce participants to the latest techniques and methods in anesthesia. The workshop aims to enhance procedures in regional anesthesia and analgesia for childbirth, ultimately improving patient care during obstetric surgeries.
The significance of this Eighth School of Obstetric Anesthesia lies in its expanded focus, now also covering pediatric anesthesia.
“Our collaboration with the American NGO Kybele began in April 2017 with the first School of Obstetric Anesthesia. Since then, ongoing education for our anesthesiologists has led to substantial advancements in obstetric anesthesia techniques,” said Prof. Dr. Jasmina Smajić, Head of the Clinic for Anesthesiology and Reanimation. “This progress has contributed to a rise in cesarean sections performed under regional anesthesia and an increase in natural childbirths using pain management methods.What is particularly significant in this Eighth School of Obstetric Anesthesia is the inclusion of pediatric anesthesia training,” she said. “We are fortunate to have Dr. Karina Jakubowska here to educate our anesthesiologists, especially those specializing in pediatric care, on the latest techniques and advancements. This training aims to enhance pediatric anesthesia practices during surgical and anesthesia procedures, further strengthening the quality of care we provide.”
“Our goal is to share our knowledge and train your doctors in techniques widely used in the United Kingdom and across other European countries,” said Dr. Jakubowska. “We aim to stay at the forefront of advancements in regional anesthesia techniques, and we hope this visit will bring lasting benefits not only to the doctors and medical staff but also to the patients they serve.”
The Director of the University Clinical Center Tuzla, Prof. Dr. Šekib Umihanić, expressed his satisfaction that, through the School of Obstetric Anesthesia, the Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics has successfully integrated regional anesthesia and pain-free childbirth as standard procedures. He emphasized the goal of extending the use of regional anesthesia to other surgical departments at Clinical Center Tuzla in the near future.
Participants rated the program as highly successful and expressed hope that such educational initiatives will continue, increasing the percentage of cesarean sections performed under spinal anesthesia and contributing to safer, more comfortable deliveries. They also underscored the importance of enhanced collaboration between anesthesiologists, gynecologists, neonatologists, and nurse-midwives to incorporate regional anesthesia as a standard practice during childbirth in healthcare facilities across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
