Introduction: Neurovascular neurosurgery is a specialized field tasked with treating the ever-increasing burden of neurovascular disease. To meet the needs of an aging population, it is vital to cultivate interest in neurovascular neurosurgery among medical students early in their careers, when exposure to medical fields can have a profound impact on their choices in specialty and subspecialty.
Methods: Students from eight institutions throughout New England gathered to participate in a one-day course on neurovascular disease management. The objective of the course was to provide early, hands-on experience for preclinical medical students in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad array of neurovascular diseases. Students attended didactic sessions focused on neuroanatomy, imaging, and case presentations. These were staggered with nine simulation sessions where students practiced various skills ranging from microsuturing to diagnostic angiography. Attendees were polled regarding their comfort with neuroanatomy and pathophysiology relevant to neurovascular disease on a 10-point scale before and after the event.
Results: The course was met with an overwhelmingly favorable response from the 82 participants in attendance. Attendees reported a 1.3 and 2.1-point improvement in their comfort with neurovascular anatomy and disease pathophysiology after attending the event. Furthermore, the regional nature of the course allowed students with interest in neurosurgery to network across institutions.
Conclusion : This event provides a model for increasing exposure, interest, and community for preclinical medical students in neurovascular neurosurgery.