Dear Colleagues and Friends,

Neuroendoscopy has seen tremendous progress in the last decade. Although it was first employed in the surgical treatment of neurosurgical diseases early in the 20th century by pioneers such as Walter Dandy, it did not become an established practice for a long time, mainly because of poor technology and clinical results. We could call the first 2 decades of the 20th century the invention phase. After decades of neglect, a kind of “dark ages”, neuroendoscopy is enjoying a sustained resurgence. After a slow timid re-appearance in the 1980s, the 1990s saw an explosion of techniques and instrumentation. We could call the 1980s the re-invention phase, when modern pioneers endured the criticism of their colleagues and tried successfully techniques that everybody thought were not working.  We could call the 1990s the expansion phase. As it is common with many other “inventions”, there was an early phase of enthusiasm, which lasted several years, when endoscopy was used almost for everything, if one was allowed to exaggerate. This expansion was couple by development of the technological armamentarium, which goes hand-in-hand with improvement of surgical techniques and results. During that phase the International Study Group for Neuroendoscopy (ISGNE) was born. I feel that now we are entering a phase of consolidation, marked by the transformation of ISGNE to the International Federation of Neuroendoscopy. We have crystallised indications and mapped out success. This does not mean that endoscopy will not expand any longer, in the contrary. But expansion will follow a mature course, as it will not meander aimless in futureless avenues. In these important crossroads comes the 5th Word Congress of Neuroendoscopy, which I have the privilege and honour to organise.

In the timeless setting of Athens, a city with rich past and vibrant present, in the birth country of modern Medicine and the Western Civilisation, and the luxurious surroundings of a historic hotel in the centre of town, we will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, but also meet old friends and make new ones. A balanced blend of science and social interaction will give us the opportunity to map the future of Neuroendoscopy in the new millennium. There is something for everybody: pre-Congress cadaveric workshop for colleagues who want to improve their skills, scientific sessions for those who have something to say and those who want to hear them, and a social programme in timeless venues. And after the Congress, everyone can enjoy the summer weather in the coastal region of Athens or one of the many wonderful islands nearby.

I hope you will all enjoy the Congress

Yours Sincerely,

Spyros Sgouros
Congress President