Dr. Anil Nanda, Chairman and Professor of The Department of Neurosurgery at LSU Health Sciences Center and Secretary /Treasurer of SUN and president-elect for 2011, attended the Society of University Neurosurgeons 43rd Annual Meeting in Rome, Naples, and Capri, Italy on June 10-14, 2009. SUN members and guests gathered to review clinical cases, describe trends in neurosurgery, and identify program innovations from experts around the world. There were approximately 60 internationally recognized neurosurgeons in attendance.
Dr. Anthony Sin, Assistant Professor at LSUHSC-Shreveport states that "this was the best location for any meeting I have ever attended." While enjoying the many delights of Italy, SUN members and guests toured the Vatican and had an audience with Pope Benedict XVI. Those in attendance include Shreveport Neurosurgeons Dr. Anil Nanda and Dr. Christina Notarianni, who received special recognition by Pope Benedict XVI. Dr. Notarianni said, "It was truly an unforgettable experience. The cardinal representing all English speaking people of North America recognized a group of neurosurgeons visiting from the United States. We all cheered, and the Pope turned to us and waved at us. It was such a great moment."
Dr. Anil Nanda presented on "Microsurgical treatment of anterior skull base meningiomas" and "Renaissance Neurosurgery: Italy’s Iconic Contributions." Dr. Notarianni’s presentation was titled, "Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS) gene polymorphisms (G894T, T786C) predispose premature infants to Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH) in African Americans," a presentation about premature infants suffering from intraventricular hemorrhage. Dr. Anthony Sin presented on "Standing scoliosis x-ray studies to evaluate and restore sagittal balance for adult spinal deformity cases."
Sapienza University of Rome hosted the SUN guests in Rome for the first part of the trip. Sapienza University was founded in 1303 and ranks among the top 30 European universities. The second part was held in Naples at University Napali. After the educational highlights in Naples, the ferry escorted SUN members and guests to Capri. A visit to the extraordinary landmark, the Blue Grotto, was just one of the many beautiful sites visited on this engaging trip to Italy. The 44th annual meeting of the Society of University Neurosurgeons will be held at the University of Miami in 2010.
Visit http://www.societyofuniversityneurosurgeons.com/ for more information.
