The University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Health Sciences has once again showcased its commitment to advancing medical education with the successful hosting of the second annual Intraventricular Neuro-endoscopy Workshop. This landmark event is a unique initiative in Africa, further cementing the University’s reputation as a leader in neurosurgery training. The quality of its faculty and teaching has earned the endorsement of leading international Neuroendoscopy societies, highlighting its global significance.

“The 2nd Intraventricular Neuro-endoscopy Workshop held at the Prinshof Campus at the faculty’s Skills Laboratory, is crucial for developing this skillset amongst neurosurgeons, as it is currently the only national workshop of its kind and one of very few on the continent,” said Professor Padayachy, Head of Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Pretoria. “Our attendees ranged from junior trainees to senior consultants, all benefiting from the unparalleled insights provided by leading global figures in Neuroendoscopy.”

Participants engage in hands-on training at the Neuro-endoscopy Workshop

This year’s workshop featured innovative teaching tools, including unique “synthetic brains” moulded from agar. These models were developed in-house, and refined from techniques used in previous workshops. Prof. Padayachy noted, “The use of these advanced models, developed in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT at the University of Pretoria, provided an unprecedented learning experience for our participants.”

The practical sessions were a highlight, offering trainees hands-on experience with the latest minimally invasive neurosurgical equipment. These sessions included the use of endoscopes, exoscopes, endoscopic ultrasonic aspirators, surgical drills and other cutting-edge tools. “The workstations allowed participants to interact with advanced equipment and simulation models, enhancing their skills and knowledge,” added Prof. Padayachy.

Trainees gain hands-on experience with advanced neurosurgical tools during practical sessions, enhancing their skills with endoscopes, exoscopes, and more

The workshop aligns with the University of Pretoria’s dedication to innovation and excellence in research. “This event underscores our commitment to developing the Brain Tumor and Translational Neuroscience Centre (BTC@UP) as a leading resource for the next generation of neurosurgeons,” said Prof. Padayachy.

Our collaboration with international experts has also enriched the educational experience. “Our partnerships with global institutions and leading academic figures are fundamental to our vision of developing the BTC into a centre of excellence,” remarked Prof. Padayachy.

Looking forward, the faculty aims to continue advancing neuroendoscopy and other minimally invasive techniques under the BTC’s umbrella. “We envision Neuroendoscopy and other advanced techniques flourishing at UP, establishing the BTC as an internationally recognised centre of excellence,” concluded Prof. Padayachy.

Support from the Faculty of Health Sciences remains vital in realising this vision. “We are grateful for the ongoing support in promoting our centre as a hub of transdisciplinary excellence, both locally and internationally,” Prof. Padayachy emphasised.