Last month, members of NeuroKids gathered in Orlando for the Second Flexible Ventricular Neuroendoscopy Live Surgery and Hands-On Workshop for Neurosurgeons, held on January 15-17, 2026. The event was more than just a workshop, it was a catalyst for transformation, collaboration, and innovation in pediatric neurosurgery.
From the opening session, an electric sense of purpose filled the room. Attendees from across continents, including Dr. Maguette Mbaye from Senegal and Dr. Kabelele Sipalo from Zambia, joined faculty and industry leaders to push the boundaries of what’s possible in neuroendoscopy. The hands-on sessions allowed participants to master the flexible scope of high-fidelity models, turning theory into tactile skill and sparking moments of discovery that will ripple through their careers and home institutions.
In many countries, limited access to timely and effective treatment makes Hydrocephalus one of the most urgent issues in pediatric neurosurgery. Traditionally, children have depended on shunts, which unfortunately fail about 60% of the time within the first four years, leading to repeated surgeries and a lifelong reliance on medical care. This is why the hands-on training provided at the workshop was so impactful. By equipping neurosurgeons with practical experience in ETV/CPC, the event empowered them with the skills to offer a transformative shunt-free alternative, helping more children avoid shunt dependency and reducing the need for ongoing surgical interventions in their home countries.
A highlight of the event was Dr. Elbabaa’s inspiring presentation of certificates of completion to Dr. Sipalo and Dr. Mbaye. Their determination and passion for advancing neurosurgical care in their home countries underscored the workshop’s global impact. Dr. Warf’s mentorship, alongside faculty luminaries Dr. Ben Warf, Dr. Michael Dewan, Dr. Jacob Lepard, Dr. Abhaya Kulkarni, Dr. Sandi Lam, Dr. Christian Diniz, Dr. Dan Donoho, Dr. Ryan Jafrani, and others, created an atmosphere of shared expertise and relentless curiosity.
But the workshop wasn’t just about technical mastery. It was about forging connections that transcend borders, nurturing the next generation of neurosurgeons, and driving forward a vision for safer, more effective care worldwide. The event was made possible through steadfast support from the Orlando Health Children’s Neuroscience Institute, as well as generous partners like Karl Storz, Johnson & Johnson MedTech, and Clarus. Our commitment to advancing surgical excellence empowered every participant to leave the workshop not only with new skills but also with renewed inspiration.
As last year’s historic workshop set a new standard, this year’s event built on that legacy, demonstrating that when innovators gather, breakthroughs follow. The NeuroKids team and faculty have once again shown that hands-on education can transform both practice and lives. Together, we’re breaking new ground in neuroendoscopy and shaping a brighter future for children everywhere.
Your generosity fuels hands-on training like this and expands access to life-saving ETV/CPC treatment for children around the world. Make a gift today to equip neurosurgeons, strengthen health systems, and help more children live longer, healthier lives. Donate today!
