Section Update: Building Momentum at ASSFN – Advancing Research, Education and Advocacy 

The American Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery (ASSFN) continues to expand its impact through deepening collaborations, exciting research and education initiatives and robust advocacy efforts. Our overarching goal is to a build a stronger, more unified voice for the field of stereotactic and functional neurosurgery. 

Strengthening Alliances and Advocacy 

ASSFN remains actively engaged with the Washington Committee, where we are contributing to critical discussions around advocacy, CPT code development and RVU valuations. Thanks to the efforts of Drs. Rosenow and Schwalb and many others, we’ve made notable strides: new CPT codes for responsive neurostimulation (RNS) generator placement and revision have been successfully introduced. We’re also collaborating closely with CMS and the AMA on defining valuation frameworks for emerging technologies such as MR-guided focused ultrasound therapy and intracranial gene therapy. 

Reinvigorating Research Support Through NREF 

We are excited to announce the relaunch of research fellowship support in partnership with the Neurosurgery Research and Education Foundation (NREF). This year, we are offering a HYMF/ASSFN Research Grant, providing $50,000 in year one, with eligibility for an additional $50,000 in year two pending satisfactory progress. This initiative is jointly funded by ASSFN, the Roy A.E. Bakay Honor Your Mentor Fund and industry partners. The grant is designed to support researchers who may not have access to strong institutional mentorship by pairing awardees with established ASSFN mentors. We hope this grant will help recipients generate preliminary data to compete for NIH funding in the future. We encourage those interested in supporting this mission to direct donations to the Roy A.E. Bakay Fund, which is currently housing contributions toward this effort. 

AMPLify: Empowering the Next Generation 

Our AMPLify Program—focusing on Authorship, Mentorship, Partnership and Leadership—continues to evolve as a cornerstone of ASSFN’s educational mission. With the goal of nurturing future leaders in stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, AMPLify offers emerging neurosurgeons a unique opportunity for a three-month visiting fellowship at the institution of a mentor whose research or clinical expertise aligns with their goals. Special thanks to Dr. Dario Englot and the entire AMPLify team for their leadership and commitment to this growing initiative. The first cohort of awardees has been announced this spring, marking an exciting milestone for the program. 

Engaging Our Community 

Volunteer engagement remains at the heart of ASSFN’s strength. We are thrilled that over 30 members responded to our recent volunteer call. From podcast development and webinars to scientific content, patient education and social media efforts, there are more ways than ever for members to get involved. We’re steadily connecting with each volunteer to ensure meaningful engagement and welcome additional ideas as we continue to grow. 

ASSFN’s digital presence has also expanded, thanks in large part to the leadership of Dr. Chen Wu, who has spearheaded the launch of our new website: ASSFN.org. Alongside our ongoing webinar series, social media outreach and newsletter updates, this platform serves as a central hub for education, updates and networking. 

We are already looking toward our 2026 Biannual Meeting which will be in Cleveland May 30, 2026. 

Looking ahead 

Through advocacy, education and research support, ASSFN is forging a path that uplifts the field and creates opportunity at every level. We thank our officers (Drs. Ellen Air, Clement Hamani and Andre Machado), our entire board of directors, members, volunteers and partners for their continued support—and invite you to stay engaged, propose new ideas and join us in shaping the future of functional neurosurgery.