The Luso-Spanish Society of Neurosurgery (1949-1995): Life, Protagonists and Activities

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The Luso-Spanish Society of Neurosurgery (Sociedad Luso-Española de Neurocirugía, SLEN), founded in 1949 and dissolved in 1995, played a decisive role in the development and consolidation of neurosurgery in the Iberian Peninsula during the second half of the twentieth century. This work analyses the historical context that led to its creation, marked by the scientific influence of pioneers such as Harvey Cushing, Egas Moniz, and Santiago Ramón y Cajal, as well as the difficult post-war conditions in Spain and Portugal. The evolution of the Society is examined through three main phases: its formation and expansion (1947–1977), the gradual process of institutional separation (1978– 1995), and the emergence of the independent national societies that followed
its dissolution. Particular attention is given to the role of key protagonists, the scientific meetings, international collaborations, and the Society’s contribution to the professional recognition of neurosurgery, including the creation of specialised services and training opportunities. The SLEN facilitated knowledge exchange between Portuguese and Spanish neurosurgeons and contributed

to the integration of Iberian neurosurgery into European and global scientific networks, leaving a lasting legacy in both countries.