From October 24 to 26, 2024, the first International Surgical Academy Prof. Ninković (ISAN) congress took place in Čepin, the heart of Slavonia. Focused on plastic, esthetic reconstructive and hand surgery, the event was hosted at Terra Negra and brought together leading surgeons and medical experts from around the world, turning Čepin into a global hub of innovation and expertise in modern surgery. The congress was led by Professor Milomir Ninković, a visionary and founder of ISAN, who has translated his extensive career and expertise into a groundbreaking project aimed at offering world-class surgical education right at home. With this congress, Professor Ninković reaffirmed his commitment to revolutionizing surgical education, providing an opportunity for both Croatian and international professionals to further their skills outside Europe’s largest medical centers.
The congress was officially opened in Čepin in the presence of leading experts and key figures from the medical community, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s advancement in modern surgery. Among the distinguished guests were Mato Lukić, the County Prefect of Osijek-Baranja County; Professor Dr. Sc. Vlado Guberac, the Rector of Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek; and Professor Dr. Sc. Ivica Mihaljević, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, who all expressed strong support for the development of this unique medical center in Čepin, a project crucial for the advancement of healthcare infrastructure in the region.
On the first day of the congress, they featured a captivating keynote address from Professor Samir Mardini, a renowned expert and head of the Department of Plastic, Esthetic and Reconstructive Surgery at the prestigious Mayo Clinic in the United States. Professor Mardini shared a fascinating overview of Mayo Clinic’s history and introduced the groundbreaking techniques now being applied in reconstructive surgery. The congress opened to significant media attention, marking a key milestone in the region’s medical education.
The congress brought together 180 participants from across the globe, spanning from the United States to Qatar. The dynamic atmosphere was charged with the rich exchange of knowledge and ideas. The sheer number of attendees and their enthusiasm underscored ISAN’s growing importance and relevance as a global center of excellence in surgical education. The event featured a stellar lineup of professors and experts from various surgical specialties whose contributions elevated the congress to new heights. Their lectures and innovative approaches provided invaluable knowledge. They inspired attendees, cementing the congress as a premier event in the field of surgery.
One of the most moving moments came with the appearance of Theo Kelz, a patient who underwent double-hand allotransplantation 20 years ago. Theo’s inspiring story of recovery, resilience, and triumph gave attendees a rare glimpse into reconstructive surgery’s profoundly humanitarian and transformative side. His strength and determination resonated with doctors and participants alike, highlighting the profound impact of this field on patients’ lives.
The ISAN congress was much more than an academic gathering – it was a meeting of leading experts and passionate professionals, all united by the common goal of advancing surgical practice. ISAN provided a platform for ongoing education, the exchange of ideas, and the creation of professional networks that will foster future collaborations and advancements in medicine.
The rich program of presentations enabled participants to adopt the latest techniques and deepen their knowledge, giving them the tools to return to their clinics with fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. The first ISAN congress marked the beginning of a new era in medical education for Croatia and the wider region. Participants left the event inspired and enriched with new knowledge, reinforcing ISAN’s role as a center for excellence, innovation, and continuous learning. This congress demonstrated that even smaller centers can become global hubs of expertise, driving transformative change for both doctors and patients alike.
