Enhancing Foot and Ankle Surgery Skills at the Inaugural Course in Lagos Nigeria, August 2025

Mr Mahadevan as part of the teaching faculty at the BOFAS Principles Course in Lagos.

The field of foot and ankle surgery demands precise skills and up-to-date knowledge to improve patient outcomes. In August 2025, Lagos, Nigeria, hosted the inaugural Principles of Foot and Ankle Surgery course, organized by the British Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (BOFAS). This event marked a significant step in advancing surgical education in the region, with Dev Mahadevan serving as a key faculty member. His expertise helped elevate the learning experience for attendees, equipping them with practical skills and deeper understanding of this specialized area.

The Importance of Specialized Training in Foot and Ankle Surgery

Foot and ankle surgery involves complex anatomy and requires surgeons to master a variety of techniques. Many regions, including parts of Africa, have limited access to specialized training programs. The Principles of Foot and Ankle Surgery course by BOFAS addresses this gap by offering a focused curriculum that covers essential surgical principles, common pathologies, and innovative treatment methods.

Participants in Lagos gained exposure to:

• Detailed anatomy and biomechanics of the foot and ankle

• Surgical approaches for fractures, deformities, and soft tissue injuries

• Postoperative care and rehabilitation strategies

• Case discussions to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios

  
  

This hands-on approach ensures surgeons leave with confidence to manage complex cases more effectively.

Dev Mahadevan’s Role in Elevating Surgical Education

As a faculty member, Dev Mahadevan brought years of clinical experience and teaching expertise to the course. His role included delivering lectures, guiding surgical simulations, and mentoring attendees during case reviews. Mahadevan emphasized practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, helping participants translate learning into real-world surgical practice.

His involvement also fostered a collaborative learning environment where surgeons could share challenges and solutions. This interaction is crucial for building a community of practice that supports continuous improvement beyond the course.

Impact on Local Healthcare and Future Prospects

The success of the inaugural Principles of Foot and Ankle Surgery course in Lagos highlights the growing demand for specialized orthopedic training in Nigeria and neighboring countries. By enhancing local surgeons' skills, the course contributes to:

• Improved surgical outcomes for patients with foot and ankle conditions

• Reduced need for patients to seek treatment abroad

• Strengthened healthcare infrastructure through knowledge transfer

  
  

BOFAS plans to continue supporting such initiatives, expanding access to quality education and fostering regional expertise.

Practical Takeaways for Surgeons and Healthcare Providers

Surgeons who attended the course reported immediate benefits, including:

• Increased confidence in performing complex procedures

• Better understanding of patient-specific treatment planning

• Enhanced ability to manage complications and postoperative care

  
  

Healthcare providers can support these advances by encouraging ongoing professional development and facilitating access to specialized courses like those offered by BOFAS.