Breaking Boundaries in Neuroanesthesia: USM’s Associate Professor Wan Mohd Nazaruddin Wan Hassan Earns Global Acclaim at ASNACC 2025

The 8th Asian Society for Neuroanesthesia and Critical Care (ASNACC) Congress 2025, organized in conjunction with the 101st Annual Scientific Meeting of the Royal College of Anesthesiologists of Thailand, drew together experts from around the world to share groundbreaking research and clinical insights in the rapidly evolving field of neuroanesthesia. Taking place from February 28 to March 2, 2025, at the InterContinental Hotel in Bangkok, the congress embraced the theme “Excellent Practice Towards Better Outcome in Neuroanesthesia,” reflecting its focus on driving innovation and enhancing patient care.

High-profile sessions featured leading specialists from Canada, the United States, Japan, Thailand, and beyond, who addressed emerging trends in neuroanesthesia, from anesthetic implications for vulnerable brains to advanced methods of neuromonitoring. Participants gained exposure to the newest guidelines and practical approaches that span from preoperative evaluation to postoperative recovery. Interactive forums allowed for lively debates on topics such as traumatic brain injury management, awake craniotomy techniques, fluid therapy, anesthesia for pediatric neurosurgery, and the role of processed EEG in perioperative brain health.

Research presentations were another highlight, showcasing studies in both basic science and clinical practice. Poster and oral presentations opened pathways for robust discussions and interdisciplinary collaboration, affirming the congress as a vital platform for the continuous advancement of neuroanesthesia.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) was represented by Associate Professor Wan Mohd Nazaruddin Wan Hassan, who delivered an invited lecture on “Anesthesia for Surgery at the Eloquent Area and Epilepsy Surgery.” This session, part of the “Harmony of Awake Craniotomy” symposium, examined critical considerations for anesthesia in eloquent regions of the brain and the unique management required for epilepsy interventions. He also served as a moderator in a symposium devoted to intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) in spine surgery, guiding discussions on anesthetic techniques aimed at patient safety and procedure smoothness, as well as common challenges and troubleshooting strategies.

We at the Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Universiti Sains Malaysia, are proud of Associate Professor Wan Mohd Nazaruddin’s achievement and the international recognition he has brought to our institution. His contributions at this renowned congress reflect the department’s commitment to excellence in research, clinical practice, and academic collaboration.

In addition to the scientific forums, the congress facilitated ample networking opportunities and professional development through workshops and interactive events. The wide-ranging and forward-thinking program underscored the importance of collaboration in refining clinical protocols, implementing new technologies, and improving patient outcomes in neurosurgical contexts.

The 8th ASNACC Congress 2025 left attendees with a renewed commitment to patient-centered care and a wealth of knowledge to enhance their daily practice. Through this event, the neuroanesthesia community continues to push boundaries and drive innovations that will shape the specialty for years to come. USM’s involvement, demonstrated by Associate Professor Wan Mohd Nazaruddin Wan Hassan’s valuable contributions, illustrates the university’s dedication to excellence and its leading role in the development of neuroanesthesia throughout the region.

For additional details on upcoming conferences or to access extended proceedings of the event, please visit the ASNACC website or contact our department.

By: Dr Muhamad Aizuddin Bin Ismail