Sétif Hosts Algerian-Turkish Parkinson’s Disease Experts
Algerian neurologists and medical practitioners recently gathered in Sétif for a scientific day focused on advancements in diagnosing and treating Parkinson's disease and movement disorders. Organized by the Turkish hospital group Medipol, this event facilitated an important exchange of expertise, notably featuring Professor Ali Zırh, a distinguished neurofunctional surgeon from Turkey. The collaborative meeting underscored Algeria's commitment to enhancing its medical capabilities through international partnerships.
During the discussions, participants extensively explored Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a technique used when conventional medications prove insufficient to control Parkinson's symptoms. This procedure involves implanting microscopic electrodes to regulate disrupted electrical activity in the brain. Professor Zırh, who has over 30 years of clinical experience and more than 1,450 DBS interventions, presented specific case studies that demonstrated significant improvements in patient autonomy and mobility for severe forms of the disease. The Medipol group also introduced Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) technology, offering a non-invasive therapeutic alternative for patients with tremors or movement disorders who may not be candidates for traditional surgery.
Nour El Houda Ouissi, Medipol's North Africa regional head, highlighted the increasing interest among Algerian patients in these advanced medical technologies, noting that several Algerian nationals have already received specialized care in Turkey. This scientific day in Sétif establishes a foundation for strengthened medical partnership and ongoing expertise exchange between the two countries' medical communities. The organizers expressed hopes for more frequent meetings to broaden access to innovations in neurofunctional surgery for Algerian patients, further illustrating Algerian institutions' proactive approach to international health cooperation in complex neurological pathologies.
