The World Federation of Neuroradiological Societies: a proposal.

Neuroradiology is that branch of diagnostic radiology that deals with disorders of the central nervous system [1). It embraces all techniques for imaging the brain and spinal cord , their respective vessels, the cranium and spine, and the organs of special sense. Practitioners include interventional (surgical) neuroradiologists, pediatric neuroradiologists, and many individuals with expertise in head and neck radiology. In North America and Europe, neuroradiology was one of the earliest organized subspecialities in radiology. It has given birth to a number of international scientific journals and has a long history of sponsoring world congresses in the form of the Symposium Neuroradiologicum. It, more than any other specialty of radiology, has energized, altered , and strengthened the newer imaging techniques of CT and MR, and is developing well-defined sections of particular interest and expertise and closer relationships with people and organizations involved in imaging of the head, neck, spine, and blood vessels. At present, the many continental , national, and local societies and the Symposium Neuroradiologicum have their own agendas. Concurrent with the burgeoning strength of clinical , technical , and educational components of neuroradiology, there is an increasing complexity of its medical, political , financial , and academic aspects. There are also frequent conflicts in scheduling of congresses and educational programs. For these reasons, the time seems ripe to form a World Federation of Neuroradiological Societies to coordinate and assist meetings, research , and educational efforts , and to disseminate scholarly information in neuroradiology. The Federation could also serve as a political and professional voice for our specialty worldwide and at the same time provide financial stability and planning for the Symposium Neuroradiologicum. The following paragraphs outline the history of organized neuroradiology, its current status , and a proposal to ensure its future health.