The human brain is arguably the most complex and fascinating organ—and a very active one at that, with exceptionally high energy requirements. The total length of all the nerve pathways in an adult human brain is about 5.8 million kilometers, which is equivalent to 145 times the circumference of the Earth. It also contains an average of about 86 billion nerve cells. These are incredibly fascinating figures. But what can be done when disorders arise, when the brain is diseased? That’s 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, loved watching his father work.
We’re talking about Professor Dr. med. Amir Samii. He is Vice President and Deputy Medical Director at the International Neuroscience Institute® (INI for short) in Hanover. As a member of the Executive Board of the World Federation of Neurosurgeons, he is very interested in actively promoting neurosurgical training in other countries as well, as his commitment to various training projects in Africa clearly demonstrates. In addition, the INI trains neurosurgeons from nearly every country in the world. In conversation with Professor Samii, one learns fascinating insights from an experienced physician who is completely absorbed in his professional work.
Leading Medicine Guide: Professor Samii, what was your main motivation for choosing this particular specialty?
Professor Dr. med. 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 remarkable organ every day, and yet it still raises so many questions.
Leading Medicine Guide: What specifically sets this field apart from other areas of medicine?
Professor Dr. med. Amir Samii: It’s the uniqueness of the field. Neurosurgery is a niche specialty. The combination of specialized knowledge, a strong technological focus, and networking with numerous neurosurgeons from around the world opens up exciting fields of work that allow you to look beyond your own boundaries.
Leading Medicine Guide: What is the career path for a specialist in this field? It certainly requires an extraordinary training program.
Professor Dr. med. Amir Samii: In fact, a medical degree alone is far from sufficient: To practice as a neurosurgeon, you need an additional six years of specialized training—including several months of experience in neurosurgical intensive care.
Leading Medicine Guide: Could you tell us a bit about your day-to-day work? What are your main areas of practice?
Professor Dr. med. Amir Samii: For over twenty years, I have been treating complex diseases, malformations, and injuries of the central and peripheral nervous systems—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 compress nerves are just as much a part of my clinical focus at the INI as herniated discs, degenerative spinal disorders, or patients recovering from a stroke.
Leading Medicine Guide: The INI, International Neuroscience Institute®, is a specialized clinic and research facility for neurological disorders.
Professor Dr. med. Amir Samii: The INI integrates all related disciplines to ensure comprehensive patient care. At our institute, we have developed a unique, department-free concept that involves all relevant experts from various specialties in patient care. Short communication channels and intensive collaboration on an equal footing ensure a smooth workflow and, ultimately, excellent results.
Leading Medicine Guide: It’s astonishing that the INI doesn’t feel like a hospital at all. Quite the opposite!
Professor Dr. med. Amir Samii: Yes, it’s more like a kind of international wellness center with a relaxing atmosphere (not to say a hotel), where you aren’t constantly reminded of your illness, but rather can recover and regain your strength from day one.
And who, if not the brain specialists themselves, knows best how a relaxed environment has a positive effect on the psyche! Thank you very much for the interesting insights, Professor Samii!
Would you like to learn more about this medical expert? Then simply visit the Leading Medicine Guide profile of neurosurgery specialist Prof. Samii!
