Travel Brief, 5th Dr. Walter E. Dandy World Congress of Neurosurgery in Porto, Portugal
Attending the 5th Dr. Walter Dandy World Congress of Neurosurgery in Porto, Portugal, was one of the most defining experiences of my medical journey. Despite a busy week filled with exams, I counted down the days to the congress. The late night of 24 September, I was at the airport heading to Porto, exhausted yet thrilled, practicing my presentation over the phone with my mentor and supervisor, Dr. Tariq Alsaadi, whose guidance and belief in me I deeply appreciate. I travelled to Porto to present our research, but I returned with far more: new friendships, deeper inspiration for neurosurgery, and memories I will carry throughout my career.
On the first morning of the congress, suited up and stepping into the main hall, I was struck by the energy in the room. Surgeons, professors, trainees, and medical students from around the world filled the space with genuine passion for neurosurgery. Many of the professors I had only seen online or on social media were suddenly standing right in front of me. That excitement grew even stronger as I stood on stage for my first-ever international presentation. In front of world-renowned neurosurgeons and academics, I presented two of our projects: Neuropsychiatric Outcomes of Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson’s Disease: A Comparative Study of STN vs GPi Targets, and Non-Operative Causes of ICU Admission in Geriatric Neurosurgical Patients. Thus, it was a moment filled with pride, representing RCSI and my home country, Oman. Moreover, the most rewarding moment came afterward, when Prof. Abdulrauf, a true icon in the field, praised the work and offered warm encouragement. Meeting him in person and shaking his hand felt like a dream come true. His humility and leadership inspire me to become the surgeon I aspire to be. I am deeply grateful to all my colleagues in these projects for their support and outstanding efforts in making this experience possible.
As the congress continued, I also had the chance to meet several internationally respected surgeons, like Prof. Jon Olabe, whose achievements and experiences were . I was particularly impressed by his profound expertise in the management of complex neurovascular aneurysms. I also attended an inspiring talk by Prof. Domingos Coito, on maintaining life balance in neurosurgery. Prof. David Hassan, who spoke powerfully about his work in Gaza; and Prof. Edson Santos, who brilliantly integrated space science with neurosurgery. Listening to leaders in the field share their knowledge and personal journeys left a strong impression on me. Additionally, meeting medical students from across the world who shared the same passion was incredibly motivating. It was also a lovely surprise to meet Katie, a fellow RCSI student. Her dedication and enthusiasm reminded me how important it is for young medical students to actively take part in opportunities like this.
On the second day, the hands-on workshops were a major highlight. I participated in sessions on microneurosurgery, brain mapping, suturing, and even had the chance to work with a €3-million neurosurgical robot for aneurysm-clipping simulation. Watching experts perform delicate techniques and then attempting them myself strengthened my confidence and deepened my appreciation for the field.
The congress concluded with a warm gala dinner by the beach, where professors, surgeons, students, and sponsors from diverse backgrounds shared the same table. It felt like a true reflection of the spirit of scientific collaboration, bringing together people from different degrees, nationalities, and ethnicities, united by a shared commitment to advancing surgical practice and improving patient care. All in all, Porto became more than a destination; it became a milestone. I left with invaluable insights, lifelong connections, and a renewed determination to push beyond my own boundaries in pursuit of knowledge. To any medical student considering such an opportunity, my advice is to always be bold, step outside your comfort zone, and make the most of every experience.
