The Traumatic Brain and Spine Injury (TBSI) Course was successfully held at the Brain Spine and Rehabilitation Hospital (BSR) in Ruiru, from October 29th to 31st, 2025.
The course started with one day of training of trainers, where senior neurosurgical residents and young consultants underwent a trainers program, followed by 2 days training of neurosurgeons and general surgeons, surgical residents and medical officers.
The training was organized through a strategic partnership between the Canadian Network for International Surgery (CNIS), the Neurosurgical Society of Kenya (NSK), and BSR Hospital. This collaboration brought together international expertise, national leadership, and advanced clinical infrastructure to build the capacity of general surgeons and surgical residents in the management of neurotrauma within resource-limited settings.
The participants were drawn from Kenyatta National Hospital, hospitals along the Thika Highway and hospitals from all the way in Garissa county.
The blended learning course combined digital self-directed study with hands-on clinical modules. Participants completed an introductory online module followed by in-person training sessions covering trauma assessment, management of traumatic brain injury, surgical techniques, and spinal cord injury care.
The practical experience included hands on training on evacuation of epidural and subdural hematomas using cranial models and elevation of depressed skull fractures using sheep heads on day one; and application of cervical collar and traction and assessment of spine injuries on the second day.
Through access to the CNIS Moodle learning platform, trainees engaged with structured educational materials and self-assessment tools designed to enhance knowledge retention and practical application.

At the conclusion of the three-day program, participants demonstrated improved skills and confidence in neurotrauma management and are now equipped to serve as local trainers and resource persons within their respective institutions—furthering the program’s long-term goal of strengthening neurotrauma care across Kenya.

Building skills. Enhancing care.
Highlights from the BSR Hospital Training, October 29–31, 2025.