The human brain is arguably the most complex and fascinating organ, as well as being a highly active one with particularly high energy requirements. The total length of all the nerve pathways in an adult human brain is around 5.8 million kilometres, which is equivalent to 145 times the circumference of the Earth. It also contains an average of around 86 billion nerve cells. These are incredibly interesting figures. But what can be done when disorders occur, when it is diseased? That is when a specialist is needed.
“A magnificent organ that raises so many questions!”
The Leading Medicine Guide conducted a highly interesting interview with one of the world’s leading neurosurgeons. He is the third generation in his family to practice medicine and, even as a young boy, enjoyed watching his father at work.
We are talking about Professor Dr Amir Samii. He is Vice-President and Deputy Medical Director at the International Neuroscience Institute ® (INI for short) in Hanover. As a board member of the World Federation of Neurosurgeons, he is keen to actively promote neurosurgical training in other countries as well, a commitment clearly demonstrated by his involvement in various training projects in Africa. At the INI, neurosurgeons from almost every country in the world are also trained. In conversation with Professor Samii, one learns interesting insights from an experienced clinician who is completely absorbed in his professional work.
Leading Medicine Guide: Professor Samii, what was your main motivation for choosing this particular specialism?
Professor Dr Amir Samii: I am still fascinated by the study and exploration of what is arguably the most mysterious organ in our body, the brain. We gain new insights into this magnificent organ every day, and yet it still raises so many questions.
Leading Medicine Guide: What distinguishes this speciality in particular from other medical fields?
Professor Dr Amir Samii: It is the uniqueness of the speciality. Neurosurgery is a niche discipline. The combination of specialist knowledge, a strong technological focus and networking with numerous neurosurgeons from all over the world opens up exciting fields of work that allow you to look beyond your own horizons.
Leading Medicine Guide: What is the career path for a specialist in this field? It surely requires an extraordinary training program.
Professor Dr Amir Samii: Indeed, a medical degree is by no means sufficient: to practice as a neurosurgeon, an additional six years of specialist training are required – including several months of intensive care in neurosurgery.
Leading Medicine Guide: Could you tell us a bit about your day-to-day work? What are your main areas of practice?
Professor Dr Amir Samii: For over twenty years, I have been treating complex diseases, malformations and injuries of the central and peripheral nervous system – with stints at the Charité in Berlin and the Brain Research Institute in Los Angeles before returning to Hanover. Vascular malformations in the head or spine, as well as tumors in the spinal canal (e.g. spinal cord) that press on the nerves are just as much a part of my clinical focus at the INI as herniated discs, degenerative spinal conditions or patients recovering from a stroke.
Leading Medicine Guide: The INI, International Neuroscience Institute®, is a specialist clinic and research facility for neurological disorders.
Professor Dr Amir Samii: The INI integrates all related disciplines to ensure centralised patient care. At our institute, we have developed a unique, department-free concept that involves all relevant experts from the various specialist areas in patient care. Short communication channels and intensive exchange on an equal footing ensure a smooth process and, ultimately, excellent results.
Leading Medicine Guide: It is astonishing that the INI does not feel like a hospital at all. Quite the opposite!
Professor Dr Amir Samii: Yes, it is more like a kind of international health center with a feel-good atmosphere (not to say a hotel), where you are not constantly reminded of your illness, but can instead recover and draw new strength from the very first day.
And who, if not the brain specialists themselves, knows best how a relaxed environment has a positive effect on the mind! Thank you very much for the interesting insights, Professor Samii!
Would you like to find out more about this medical expert? Then simply visit the Leading Medicine Guide profile of neurosurgery specialist Prof. Samii!
