Author: Lina Palaiodimou, MD, PhD 
Second Department of Neurology, “Attikon” University Hospital,
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
This year, I had the privilege of attending the ESO Summer School (16 to 20 September 2024) in Vilnius, Lithuania, as part of the ESO Emerging Stroke Leader Programme. This experience was not only an educational journey but also an opportunity to connect with fellow stroke professionals and learn from global experts. The warm hospitality of the organizers and the emphasis on networking made this experience invaluable—not just as a learning opportunity but as a steppingstone to fostering collaboration among the next generation of stroke professionals.
Day 1: Global Stroke Burden and Stroke Care Systems
The summer school started with an official Opening Ceremony, setting the stage for the week. Dalius Jatužis, President of the Lithuanian Stroke Association, and Rimvydas Petrauskas, Rector of Vilnius University, welcomed us with open arms. It was clear from the start that the organizers were dedicated to making us feel part of a larger community.
The day’s focus was on the global burden of stroke, addressing the significant healthcare costs and disabilities associated with the condition. Discussions centered on the urgent need for systemic improvements in stroke care across Europe and beyond.
We also explored stroke care pathways in Lithuania and the importance of efficient delivery systems for stroke patients. A significant portion of the day was dedicated to brain imaging, examining the role of advanced diagnostic technologies in stroke management. Engaging topics such as Patent Foramen Ovale treatment and the identification of stroke mimics were also explored.
The evening concluded with an excursion to Vilnius University, accompanied by a reception, which provided the first opportunity to network with fellow participants and faculty members.
Day 2: Reperfusion Therapy for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Day 2 focused on reperfusion therapy, a vital aspect of acute stroke management. The morning sessions highlighted lessons learned from large clinical trials on intravenous thrombolysis, followed by discussions on treatment protocols that extend beyond standard practices. The complexities of administering thrombolysis in dementia patients were also addressed, emphasizing the need for personalized care approaches.
The afternoon included an in-depth look at endovascular treatment options and strategies to manage clinical complications following successful mechanical thrombectomy. We ended the day with a wonderful beer degustation at the Beer Library, which was not only a cultural experience but also an excellent chance to deepen relationships with peers.
Day 3: ESO Symposium on Stroke Management
The third day shifted focus to comprehensive stroke management strategies. We explored challenges and gaps within current stroke care systems, along with the critical importance of prehospital management for improving patient outcomes. The role of emerging technologies, particularly AI, in enhancing stroke diagnosis and treatment was a hot topic of discussion, sparking engaging conversations about the future of stroke care.
The day concluded with a presentation on the potential of inflammation as a new treatment target for stroke prevention. With a free evening ahead, participants had the chance to explore Vilnius or engage in informal networking, deepening the connections forged throughout the week.
Day 4: Life After Stroke and Small Vessel Disease
Day 4 highlighted life after stroke, covering aspects of post-stroke recovery, cognitive impairment, and the management of post-stroke seizures. The morning sessions provided valuable insights into the ongoing challenges faced by stroke survivors and emphasized the need for holistic care approaches.
Following a coffee break, we shifted our focus to small vessel disease. Updates on the latest findings in cerebral small vessel disease offered crucial insights for future stroke prevention strategies.
The day also featured interactive clinical case discussions, allowing us to apply our knowledge to real-world scenarios. Moderated by leading experts, these sessions encouraged collaboration and peer-to-peer learning. We capped off the day with a guided city tour of Vilnius and enjoyed dinner, creating further opportunities for informal discussions and networking.
Day 5: Hands-On Training and Other Causes of Stroke
The final day was dedicated to hands-on training and lectures on other causes of stroke. The morning began with workshops focused on practical simulations in smaller groups, where we engaged in real-world clinical situations and the practical application of neurosonology. These sessions were invaluable in honing our diagnostic skills and translating theoretical knowledge into practice.
In the afternoon, we examined several critical topics, including intracerebral hemorrhage, the genetics of stroke, and the management of artery dissections. The discussions around posterior circulation strokes provided deeper insights into the complexities of treatment options for these conditions.
The week concluded with a farewell dinner, providing a final opportunity to celebrate the friendships formed and reflect on the enriching experiences shared.
Conclusion: A Week of Learning, Growth, and Networking
The ESO Summer School was an extraordinary opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. The thoughtful organization and generous hospitality made this experience memorable. The friendships and professional connections I built with other emerging stroke leaders will undoubtedly lead to future collaborations that will shape the stroke care landscape.
As I return to my practice, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement about the future of stroke care. The lessons learned here will stay with me as I strive to implement better stroke management practices and collaborate with my peers to make a real difference in patient outcomes.
ESOC is Europe’s leading forum for advances in research and clinical care of patients with cerebrovascular diseases. ESOC 2025 will live up to its expectation, and present to you a packed, high quality scientific programme including major clinical trials, state-of-the-art seminars, educational workshops, scientific communications of the latest research, and debates about current controversies. Learn more.
