📢 Save the Date

May 24-26, 2024

Quick Links

A Century of Excellence in Neurosurgery: Celebrating 100 Years and Beyond

2024 marks the 100th anniversary of the Division of Neurosurgery at the University of Toronto's Temerty Faculty of Medicine. Over the last century, we have evolved into one of the world's largest and most prestigious neurosurgical training programs. From the outset, our mission has remained unchanged: to educate the most capable and talented medical students, grooming them to be the future leaders in neurosurgery.

The Division of Neurosurgery boasts a distinguished history of excellence, having produced leaders across North America and pioneers in every neurosurgical subspecialty. From ground breaking brain, spine and peripheral nerve surgeries to innovative treatments incorporating functional neuroimaging, cutting edge technologies and advanced robotic techniques, the division has consistently set the gold standard in neurosurgery excellence in patient care, research and training -  paving the path for the next generation of trailblazers who will lead the field.

May 24-26, 2024 will be a time to recognize our past and celebrate our accomplishments and influence in shaping the field of neurosurgery.

To coincide with the Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation (CNSF) conference, the University of Toronto’s Division of Neurosurgery will host a scientific symposium and a gala celebration. This event will feature local, Canadian, and international speakers and guests. It will be an opportunity for our community of neurosurgical leaders, learners, educators, and visionaries to come together, reflect on our history, and envision our future.

Please join the University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Division of Neurosurgery and our four esteemed teaching hospitals: St. Michael’s, Sunnybrook, Toronto Western , and the Hospital for Sick Children, in this once-in-a-century celebration.

Scientific Celebrations

Social Celebrations

Make a Gift

The first of its kind in North America, the Surgeon Scientist Training Program enables all surgical trainees to pursue research at the master's and doctoral level during their residency. The program is core to the Department's ethos and sets it apart from other residency training programs. As it becomes more and more difficult for researchers to secure grant support, we need your support to help us create future opportunities for the next generation of surgical residents, fellows, researchers and faculty.

Unleashing the Potential of Neurosurgery: Stand with us as we champion the Dan Family Chair in Neurosurgery fund, igniting a new era of support for current and ongoing research, knowledge translation, and hands-on training. Together, we empower the next generation of future public health leaders, driving inspired leadership, innovation, and excellence in neurosurgical education, research, and practice.

This fund was established in honour of Dr. James T. Rutka, R.S. McLaughlin Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery. Dr. Rutka is a dedicated surgeon, prolific researcher, devoted mentor and inspirational leader. The endowed fund will annually support competitive research projects across all priority areas in the Department of Surgery — truly capturing Jim’s impact across many areas — to advance research and innovation in surgical education and patient care.

As the Division of Neurosurgery, we are proud to introduce our esteemed network of organizations and partners, each playing a pivotal role in advancing the field of neurosurgery and shaping the future of neurological sciences.

  • Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation (CNSF): A cornerstone in our network, CNSF fosters excellence in neurological education, research, and patient care. This esteemed federation unites professionals across Canada in the pursuit of advancing neurological sciences.

  • Department of Surgery, University of Toronto Temerty School of Medicine: Our academic backbone, offering a rich history of surgical education and pioneering research. This department is a crucible of innovation and excellence, nurturing the next generation of surgical leaders.

  • The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids): A beacon of hope and expertise in pediatric neurosurgery. SickKids is renowned for its compassionate care and groundbreaking research, providing life-altering treatments for the youngest of patients.

  • Unity Health Toronto - St. Michael's: A leader in trauma and neurovascular surgery, St. Michael's stands at the forefront of complex neurosurgical care. Its commitment to exceptional patient outcomes and innovative research makes it an invaluable member of our network.

  • Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre: Renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and expert team, Sunnybrook excels in the treatment of brain injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. It is a hub of excellence in both patient care and neurosurgical research.

  • University Health Network - Toronto Western Hospital: A pillar in neurosurgical advancement, Toronto Western Hospital is celebrated for its expertise in functional neurosurgery, deep brain stimulation, and treatments for brain tumour, skull base and spinal disorders, while strongly emphasizing its commitment to pioneering research and excellence in patient care. 

Together, these organizations form a powerful alliance, driving forward the boundaries of neurosurgical care and research. As we stand united, we are dedicated to improving patient outcomes, advancing surgical techniques, and fostering the next generation of neurosurgeons.

Join us in celebrating this collaborative journey towards a future where the challenges of neurosurgery are met with even greater innovations and successes.