Master

Endovascular neurosurgery is undergoing a profound transformation, expanding rapidly beyond traditional vascular indications and redefining the treatment of complex neurological diseases. In this evolving landscape, excellence can no longer be achieved through isolated training programs or standalone research initiatives.

To address this challenge, we have developed— in collaboration with some of the world’s leading institutions—an integrated European platform that brings together advanced clinical training, translational research, and academic education within a single, coordinated system.

The European Neurovascular and Endovascular Training Center, the Translational Research Center for Endovascular Neurosurgery, and the European Master in Vascular and Endovascular Neurosurgery form a connected and circular ecosystem, where education, innovation, and clinical practice continuously reinforce one another.

This model creates a unique environment in Europe in which physicians can be trained using state-of-the-art simulation and clinical exposure, actively contribute to cutting-edge research and device development, and translate innovation directly into patient care. By uniting trainees, senior experts, researchers, and industry partners within the same framework, the platform is designed not only to teach existing techniques, but to shape the future of endovascular neurosurgery itself.

Together, these three initiatives create a virtuous circle in which education feeds research, research drives innovation, and innovation enhances clinical training. This integrated approach provides a unique platform, directed by Professor Simone Peschillo, where neurosurgeons can be trained at the highest level while actively contributing to the development, validation, and translation of next-generation endovascular therapies.

European Neurovascular and Endovascular Training Center

At the core of this ecosystem lies the European Neurovascular and Endovascular Training Center, dedicated to the clinical and academic growth of young neurosurgeons and neurovascular specialists. The Center provides a state-of-the-art simulation environment designed to transform learning in vascular and endovascular techniques through:

• next-generation simulators for open and endovascular procedures;
• hands-on training with highly realistic models (flow models, placenta models, electronic models);
• monthly thematic sessions open to physicians, residents, and professionals;
• live surgery transmitted from international centers of excellence with interactive discussion;
• immersive workshops, EANS-style sessions, and blended learning pathways with preparatory online lectures.

Strong collaboration with industrial partners and world-leading experts ensures continuous exposure to the most advanced technologies and techniques. The Center also serves as a platform that can be offered to industry partners—through dedicated training courses—for their professional users.

Translational Research Center for Endovascular Neurosurgery

Closely linked to the training activities is the Translational Research Center for Endovascular Neurosurgery, which represents the scientific, technological, and entrepreneurial engine of the system.

Its mission is to accelerate innovation by integrating clinical needs with engineering expertise, creating a direct bridge between medical practice and the development of new endovascular devices and technologies. Key objectives include:

• development and validation of new tools, techniques, and therapies;
• acceleration of technology transfer into clinical practice;
• active collaboration with biomedical companies, research centers, and start-ups;
• support for new entrepreneurial initiatives in the field;
• access to testing environments, specialized equipment, and advanced clinical expertise;
• contribution to patient safety, therapeutic effectiveness, and improved neurological outcomes;
• support throughout European certification and regulatory approval processes and patent application pathways.

The Center functions as a true innovation hub, ideal for proof-of-concept development, pre-clinical studies, prototype testing, and structured industrial collaborations.

Companies can access laboratory infrastructure through dedicated agreements, generating a dynamic and multidisciplinary ecosystem.

Advanced Education: The European Master in Vascular and Endovascular Neurosurgery

Completing this circular system is the European Master in Vascular and Endovascular Neurosurgery, created in response to the rapid and transformative evolution of neurovascular treatment.

The Master is designed for neurosurgical residents (PGY 4–5) and specialists seeking solid theoretical and practical competence in microsurgery and/or endovascular treatment of cerebral and spinal pathologies. Neurologists with a strong interest in endovascular therapies are also welcomed, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern neurovascular medicine.

While microsurgery remains fundamental—especially for complex aneurysms and reconstructive procedures—the future of vascular neurosurgery is inseparable from endovascular therapy. Endovascular therapy has become a core element of modern neurosurgery, expanding its therapeutic reach.

The programme also reflects the expanding horizons of endovascular techniques, which now extend beyond traditional vascular pathologies to include conditions such as chronic subdural hematomas, tumors, hydrocephalus, headaches, and emerging applications like endovascular brain–computer interfaces.