McMaster University
Division of Neurological Surgery
Education: Courses
Skull Base Course
This annual cadaveric course brings neurosurgery and otolaryngology together to learn advanced and endoscopic skull base techniques from international expertise.
Minimally Invasive Course
This annual cadaveric course brings neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery together to learn advanced and minimally invasive spine surgery procedures from international expertise.
Anatomy Lab
McMaster neurosurgery is privileged to have access to both wet-lab cadaver based and prosection-based neuroanatomy learning opportunities.
Cerebrovascular Day
Learn from local and invited experts on cerebrovascular disease from stroke and stenosis to subarachnoid hemorrhage.
RUNN Course
Junior residents are encouraged to attend the Research Update in Neurosciences for Neurosurgeons course in order to develop both research fundamentals and seek inspiration from leading surgeon scientists.
Academic Half Day
All neurosurgery residents are required to attend academic half-day each Friday from 7am-12pm. This is protected academic time meant for resident learning and includes Case Rounds, Neurosciences Grand Rounds, and a structured curriculum including practical cadaveric exposures and didactic teaching from faculty.
Stroke Rounds
The dedicated stroke team at McMaster hosts weekly educational rounds to further develop institutional expertise on this intersectional disease.
Journal Club
Residents and attendings attend neurosurgery journal club monthly and present on the cutting edge of current knowledge.
Pituitary Day
Learn from local and invited experts on sellar disease including complex endocrinology, surgical, and radiosurgical management options.
Neurosurgery Bootcamp
All first year residents attend the national rookie camp prior to starting their clinical rotations. From anatomy to Mayfield placement, they will help you prepare to climb the wild learning curve!
Ottawa Review Course
Resident preparing for their FRCSC examinations are encouraged to attend multiple review courses. At a minimum, this includes the comprehensive Ottawa Neurosurgery Review Course.
Conferences & Others
Attend local, national, and international conferences and courses. Residents from McMaster frequent the CNSF, CNS, AANS, and Lougheed Microsurgery courses.
Clinical Education
McMaster provides a rich learning environment with exposure to the entire breadth of neurosurgery, supported by a strong team. Early operative and non-operative management are prioritized to develop strong clinicians and surgeons.
Hamilton General Hospital remains the busiest emergency neurosurgery centre in the province, and one of the busiest in Canada. This ensures residents are given ample opportunity to develop and ultimately hone their skills.