Orlando and its 95 surrounding theme parks and attractions are a fitting stage for the full-scale production that is the 72nd Annual Meeting of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS). From May 1 through May 6, six science-filled days planned around the theme “Advancing Patient Care Through Technology and Creativity” give way to evenings that provide seemingly endless opportunities for friendship and fun.
Several events take place before the Annual Meeting officially opens. On Friday, April 30, the Latin American Symposium of Neurosurgery is being held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Orange County Convention Center. A reception at the Peabody Orlando Hotel follows, further encouraging the exchange of ideas. Also on Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Pain Symposium, presented by the AANS/CNS Section on Pain, offers the latest information on the diagnosis and treatment of craniofacial pain and trigeminal neuralgia.
The popular practical clinics are held all day both Saturday and Sunday. The 43 clinics feature the latest techniques and information on topics from lumbar interbody fusion and how to use PowerPoint to ways for residents to cope in the “real world” of neurosurgery.
The Opening Reception tour de force promises fun for everyone. From 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure, the islands of Jurassic Park and the Lost Continent are exclusively open to attendees and their families. The festive atmosphere features fun for everyone, whether enjoying the fabulous food, cocktails and entertainment, or taking turns on thrilling rides such as Poseidon’s Fury and Triceratops Discovery Trail.
On Monday, May 3, the scientific program begins. A total of 80 breakfast seminars are featured, with an entirely new format planned for the Thursday seminars. Attendees can bring their most challenging cases in the areas of lumbar spine, cervico-thoracic spine, cerebrovascular and tumors to discuss with experts.
Also on Thursday, May 6, a fourth plenary session focuses exclusively on socioeconomic issues. The session features the Rhoton Family Lecture by Uwe Reinhardt, PhD, followed by a socioeconomic question and answer session.
In the Exhibit Hall’s 80,000 square feet of space, the latest technology abounds. The AANS Resource Center features old and new favorites, and the Young Neurosurgeons Sixth Annual Silent Auction features an abundance of biddable items and promises another successful year.
Updated information is available at www.AANS.org.
Manda J. Seaver is staff editor of the Bulletin.