History of the EANS

The idea of a European Union of Neurosurgeons had been discussed already in Brussels 1957, where the First International Congress of Neurological Surgery was held. The concept of a European Association of Neurosurgical Societies was discussed after the Rome meeting 1963, and in Madrid 1967 and a committee was established with the task of preparing the definitive constitution.

The original constitution of EANS was published in Acta Neurochirurgica (24:347-348,1971). The association was to be responsible for organising future European Congresses of Neurosurgery every four year, alternating bi-annually with the International Congress of the World Federation of Neurological Societies. It should also organise joint programmes of clinical research and educational interest, discuss common problems, act as an Advisory body when called upon and facilitate the interchange of teaching staffs and young neurosurgeons among the different European neurosurgical departments.

The ultimate legislative body of EANS is the Executive Committee, consisting of representatives from all the national neurosurgical member societies. The Executive Committe normally meets every second year, either at the time of the congress of WFNS or at the time of the quadrennial European neurosurgical congress. The Administrative Council is responsible for the ongoing organisation and administration, and usually meets twice a year, either during the vice-president winter meeting or during the annual training course. The term for office is four years. Elections are held at the time of the European Neurosurgical Congress.

Much of the important work of the EANS has been the job of its different committees, some being more active and effective than others. The creation of the Training Committee from the very beginning of the EANS was an important step, and the strenght and survival of the EANS could during many years be ascribed to its activities, in particular through the formation of lasting friendships among the trainees, and between trainees and teachers.

The EANS was founded in the beautiful city of Prague

Previous meetings of The European Congress of Neurosurgery

For further reading on the history of EANS, and a beautiful photographic grand tour of some of Europe's greatest city, we recommend this book by John Garfield and Jean Brihaye.