On May 6–7, 2025, the Society of Ethiopian Neurological Surgery Professionals (SENSP), in collaboration with the Foundation for International Education in Neurological Surgery (FIENS), hosted the Ethiopian Spine Symposium in Addis Ababa—a transformative two-day spine surgery bootcamp aimed at strengthening local surgical capacity through global partnership.
Dr. Sarah Woodrow, a neurosurgeon at the Cleveland Clinic and FIENS Board Member, led the planning and execution of this landmark event, which welcomed 60–70 young neurosurgeons from Ethiopia and surrounding countries. A distinguished group of visiting faculty—including Dr. Ed Benzel (Cleveland Clinic), Dr. Shah Siddiqi, Dr. Jacob Lepard, Dr. Harminder Singh, Dr. Sophie Zhou, and Dr. Yusef Imani—delivered lectures and participated in case-based discussions alongside Ethiopian colleagues.
Day 1 focused on spinal trauma. The morning began with cervical spine topics including: Introduction to Biomechanics of the Spine – Dr. Ed Benzel, Atlantoaxial Dislocations – Dr. Abreham, Complications Related to the Anterior Approach to the Cervical Spine – Dr. Aderehime Haidara and Nuances of Pediatric Spinal Trauma – Dr. Jacob Lepard. This was followed by a panel-based case discussion and a hands-on session.
The afternoon shifted to thoracolumbar trauma, covering: Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty: Techniques, Indications, and Pitfalls – Dr. Aderehime Haidara, Sacral Trauma – Dr. Jacob Lepard, Non-operative Management of Spinal Trauma – Dr. Sophie Zhou, Managing Trauma in Patients with a “Stiff Spine” – Dr. Harminder Singh. Another round of case discussions and hands-on workshops rounded out the day.
Day 2 focused on degenerative spine diseases and infections. The morning lectures included: Advanced Biomechanics of the Spine – Dr. Ed Benzel, The Importance of Sagittal Balance – Dr. Yusef Imani, High-Grade Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: Approaches and Outcomes – Dr. Shah Siddiqi, and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery – Dr. Sarah Woodrow. Afternoon lectures addressed spinal infections: TB Spondylitis – Dr. Kibru, Spine Epidural Abscess – Dr. Harminder Singh, Post-Operative Infections – Dr. Sarah Woodrow, Spinal TB – and the Ethiopian Experience – Dr. Abreham.
Each day included intensive hands-on lab sessions. Four stations offered a wide range of skills-based training:
- Station A: Posterior approaches to the cervical spine and occipitocervical junction, lateral mass screw insertion, and cervical wiring
- Station B: Cervical traction application, ACDF, and anterior cervical corpectomy
- Station C: Posterior thoracolumbar techniques, anterior and lateral lumbar approaches, and wiring methods
- Station D (Advanced): Anterolateral thoracic approaches, transpedicular access, and MIS lumbar surgery
Together, these sessions provided a comprehensive, high-impact learning experience that blended theory with practical application. By combining expert-led lectures with hands-on skill development, the symposium empowered participants with the tools and confidence to address complex spinal pathologies in their clinical practice—marking a significant step forward in strengthening neurosurgical care in Ethiopia.
“The two-day Spine Boot Camp, organized in collaboration with the Society of Ethiopian Neurological Surgery Professionals, proved to be an invaluable experience for our neurosurgical community. Bringing together 70 neurosurgeons and residents, the event offered a unique opportunity to learn from world-renowned experts, including Dr. Edward Benzel. Through lectures, case-based discussions, and hands-on sessions, participants gained deep insights into the tailored management of common spinal pathologies, greatly enhancing their clinical expertise. We extend our sincere thanks to FIENS and Dr. Sarah for their invaluable efforts in coordinating this important educational event.”
– Dr. Tsegazeab Laeke
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Globus Cares for their generous support of this bootcamp, and to all the donors who contributed to the fundraiser that made this training possible. Every dollar given, every hour volunteered, and every story shared moves Ethiopia closer to a future where neurosurgeons are fully equipped and trained to deliver safe, effective care to all patients in need.
