Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Latin American Pediatric Neurosurgery Course LACPN (2004-2024)

Abstract

Two decades ago, a visionary initiative was launched in Latin America with the aim of advancing pediatric neurosurgery education and expertise across the region. Today, as we mark the 20th anniversary of the Latin American Pediatric Neurosurgery Course (LACPN), it is an opportune moment to reflect on its journey, celebrate its achievements, and chart a course for its continued success. The LACPN was established with a clear mission: to provide a platform for knowledge exchange, skill development, and collaboration among neurosurgeons dedicated to caring for children with neurological conditions. Designed to cover the major fields in Pediatric Neurosurgery, the scientific program is divided into annual courses over a 3-year cycle, with each biannual course is based on a four-day program divided in the morning sessions; lectures and case discussion an afternoon session; lectures, video session, "hand-on", and "solve a case". Following the ESPN post-graduate course and Asian-Australasian Course in Pediatric Neurosurgery program. At the heart of the LACPN's success lies its unwavering commitment to education and training, a culture of continuous learning and mentorship, the LACPN has not only raised the standard of care but also inspired a new generation of neurosurgeons dedicated to pediatric neurosurgery in the past 20 years. Over the past 18 years of LACPC more than 350 different trainees (from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Uruguay, Mexico, Venezuela, Bolivia, Cuba, Paraguay, and others) and 73 faculty invitees (from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, USA, France, Italy, Costa Rica, Colombia, Turkish, Singapore, Spain, UK, and Australia, South Africa) have attended the course. In 2024, the LACPN become an official course of the Latin American Association for Pediatric Neurosurgery (ASOLANPED). This year the course was held in Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina, with the brilliant direction of Dr. Ramiro delRio and Dr. Sebastian G. Jaimovich. As we reflect on the past 20 years, it is evident that the LAPNC has made a profound impact on the field of pediatric neurosurgery in Latin America. Its legacy extends far beyond the confines of the operating room, encompassing a legacy of excellence, collaboration, and compassion that will continue to shape the future of pediatric neurosurgery for generations to come. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we are reminded that our work is far from complete. Challenges remain, ranging from disparities in access to care to the need for continued innovation and research. As we look ahead to the next 20 years and beyond, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence, the advancement of knowledge, and the relentless pursuit of better outcomes for the children and families we serve.LACPN is a unique course! Friendship, collaboration and opportunities for everyone are the pillars of this course. In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the Latin American Pediatric Neurosurgery Course over the past two decades – the organizers, faculty, participants, sponsors, and supporters. Your dedication, passion, and commitment have made this journey possible, and we look forward to continuing our shared mission of advancing pediatric neurosurgery in Latin America and beyond. Here's to 20 years of excellence, and to many more years of innovation, collaboration, and impact. See you in Rio de Janeiro 2024!!