A Nigerian medical doctor and founder GrandvilleTrauma in Lagos, Dr. Aranmolate Rasheed Ayobami, has developed a groundbreaking surgical scoring system aimed at improving patient outcomes before, during, and after surgical procedures.
Known as the Surgical Operative and Postoperative Diagnostics Scoring System (SOPSS), the innovation offers a simpler and more efficient approach compared to existing international models. It evaluates five major parameters — surgical complexity, risk level, infection potential, surgeon’s expertise, and urgency — and provides a single, comprehensive score to guide clinical decisions.
Dr. Ayobami, who spoke to reporters in Lagos, stated that the SOPSS was designed with the realities of Nigeria’s healthcare system in mind. “Our hospitals need tools that are fast, reliable, and easy to use, especially in emergency situations. SOPSS can function effectively even in small clinics with limited technology,” he said.
The development is timely, given the ongoing brain drain among Nigerian medical professionals and persistent shortages of essential medical equipment across public hospitals. SOPSS, which is compatible with various surgical disciplines, including neurosurgery, is expected to help bridge critical gaps in surgical care.
Experts have described the innovation as a potential game-changer in reducing surgical complications and mortality rates, especially in cases where patients present late. Several teaching hospitals have reportedly expressed interest in piloting the scoring system.
However, Dr. Ayobami stressed that such homegrown solutions require government intervention and funding to thrive. “We have brilliant minds in this country, but without the right policies, access to equipment, and investment in training, these innovations may not reach their full potential,” he warned.
He also appealed to policymakers to reduce import duties on medical devices and support the development of digital tools to complement systems like SOPSS.
Looking ahead, Dr. Ayobami and his team are working on a digital version of the scoring system, which will integrate with hospital information systems to ease implementation nationwide. They are also seeking strategic partnerships to expand access to the tool across Nigeria.
Medical observers say if widely adopted, SOPSS could position Nigeria as a frontrunner in surgical innovation among developing countries, demonstrating the potential of African-led solutions in global healthcare.