In March 2024, the Department of Neurosurgery at Al-Azhar University, under the leadership of Dr. Mohammed Hasan Mansour, in association with the Pediatric Department at Al-Azhar University, led by Professor Mohsen Alkeeiy and Professor Ahmed Alsawwah, was privileged to host a pivotal event in the field of epilepsy surgery. The week-long program featured an intensive workshop and a highly anticipated conference that brought together leading minds in neurosurgery and pediatrics from across Egypt.
The program was enriched by the presence of Dr. Natesan Damodaran, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon specializing in Epilepsy Surgery and Functional Neurosurgery at Gleneagles Health City, Chennai, India. Dr. Natesan’s participation added significant value to the event, thanks to his extensive expertise in epilepsy surgery. His contributions were particularly notable during the workshop, where he shared his knowledge and techniques with an eager audience of neurosurgeons and trainees.
A key component of the workshop was a full day dedicated to advanced anatomical studies in the Anatomy Department at Al-Azhar University. This session was led by Dr. Mohammed Hasan Mansour, Head of the Neurosurgery Department at Al-Azhar University Hospital, and Dr. Abdo Elsharkawy, Head of the Department of Anatomy at Al-Azhar University. The session focused on a cadaveric lab dissection of the brain at the Microscopic Neuroanatomy Unit. The dissection was expertly performed by Dr. Bassem Ayoub, Professor of Neurosurgery at Cairo University, and Dr. Natesan Damodaran. This hands-on dissection was instrumental in explaining the various types of hemispherotomy operations, offering participants a unique opportunity to gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of these complex procedures. Dr. Natesan’s guidance during this session was invaluable, as it helped bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing clarity on the intricate anatomical aspects critical to successful epilepsy surgeries.
The workshop was a prelude to the prestigious conference titled “Drug-Resistant Epilepsy in Pediatrics with Special Emphasis on Hemispherotomy.” Organized by the Department of Neurosurgery at Al-Azhar University, the conference was a major event that drew a large number of professional neurosurgeons from across Egypt. The lectures during the conference were specifically focused on epilepsy surgery, featuring presentations from pioneers in this field, both from Egypt and within our department. Notably, Dr. Alaa Rashad, Associate Professor of Neurosurgery at Al-Azhar University, shared his valuable insights and experience in epilepsy surgery, adding depth and practical knowledge to the discussions. The conference also included highly valuable lectures on epilepsy neurophysiology and pathology, delivered by esteemed neurologists and neurophysiologists. These lectures enriched the program by providing a comprehensive understanding of the neurological and pathological aspects of epilepsy, which are critical to successful surgical outcomes. The conference attracted all neurosurgeons interested in advancing their knowledge and skills in these critical surgeries. It served as a vibrant platform for discussing the latest advancements in epilepsy surgery, particularly the challenges and innovations in treating pediatric cases with hemispherotomy.
Throughout the conference, a series of lectures and discussions took place, where experts shared their experiences and insights on epilepsy surgery. Dr. Natesan’s presentations were among the highlights, offering a deep dive into surgical techniques and patient management strategies. His talks, while comprehensive, were just one part of the broader dialogue that took place among the attendees, fostering a collaborative environment that emphasized the importance of shared learning and continuous innovation.
The week also included several complex surgical procedures, with a focus on hemispherotomies, conducted under the expert guidance of Dr. Natesan. These operations provided our team with invaluable practical experience and underscored the importance of precision and care in neurosurgical practice.
As the event concluded, it was clear that the workshop and conference had a profound impact on all participants. The insights gained from the discussions, dissections, and surgeries will undoubtedly influence the future of epilepsy surgery at Al-Azhar University. Dr. Mohammed Hasan Mansour and the entire department were instrumental in organizing this landmark event, ensuring it was a resounding success.
This week of excellence has set a new benchmark for neurosurgical education and collaboration at our institution. We are deeply grateful for the contributions of all involved and look forward to building on the foundations laid during this extraordinary event.