From the Editor - Assoc. Prof. Özgür Akşan

When neurosurgery is mentioned, a complex, frightening, and inaccessible world comes to mind for most of us. However, the foundation of this field, as in every branch of medicine, is to understand the patient, make the correct diagnosis, and determine the most appropriate treatment path together.

When you pick up the first issue of Brain Via Spine, this is exactly what we want to share with you: to convey the world of neurosurgery in an understandable, reliable, and up-to-date language. In this magazine, you will find neither an academic article nor a dry medical encyclopedia. Our goal is to present the topics our patients and colleagues are most curious about, blending them with our clinical experience.

What's in This Issue?

In our first issue, we have covered a wide range of topics from brain tumours to spine surgery, from peripheral nerve diseases to technological innovations. Advances in surgery, imaging, and molecular diagnosis in the treatment of glioblastoma, along with minimally invasive techniques in lumbar disc herniation, are among the prominent topics of this issue.^1,2

There is a section I particularly want to draw your attention to: Common Misconceptions. We compared the myths most frequently voiced by patients with scientific facts.

Intertwined with Technology

Another important dimension of this issue is technology. Technologies such as neuronavigation, robotic surgery, and augmented reality are increasingly being adopted and used in neurosurgery operating rooms.^3,4 Atlas and Ayşe — our artificial intelligence assistants — have taken their place in our pages as concrete examples of this technological transformation.

Technologies such as neuronavigation, robotic surgery, and augmented reality are increasingly being adopted and used in neurosurgery operating rooms.

Looking Ahead

Brain Via Spine will be published quarterly and will explore a different main theme in depth in each issue. In our second issue, we will cover spine surgery comprehensively. In the third issue, functional neurosurgery — Parkinson's, epilepsy, and pain surgery — will be our main agenda.

I experience the responsibility of working in one of the most sensitive fields of medicine together with the excitement of sharing knowledge. Bringing this magazine to you is a distinct source of pride for me.

Wishing you healthy days.

Assoc. Prof. Özgür Akşan

Neurosurgery Specialist

drozguraksan.com