ESCFS

The scientific programme of this meeting will cover not only the complex surgical treatment of craniofacial conditions but also the holistic non-surgical multidisciplinary management of these conditions. Specifically, in the management of craniosynostosis, we will debate the latest surgical techniques and outcome data relating to both isolated and syndromic conditions.

In addition, one of our mission aims is to try to increase the number of craniofacial units in Europe, and to encourage the true multidisciplinary aspect of this speciality in other countries. In order to do this we will be working together closely with the Craniofacial ERN (European Reference Network) to encourage craniofacial training throughout Europe.

The conference will take place at the Mathematical Institute; Oxford’s newest and largest purpose-built venue located only a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. The Institute is adjacent to the former Radcliffe Infirmary, where Penicillin underwent its first clinical testing on patients in 1941, following its successful isolation and purification in Oxford by Lord Florey and his team. A formal photograph of the conference delegates will take place outside this building at lunchtime on Friday 23rd September.

In addition to the scientific programme, we have prepared a memorable social event. This year’s meeting will start with a welcome meal on the evening of Thursday 22nd September at 7.30 pm at The Divinity School, a magnificent historic venue and part of the Bodleian Library, the largest university library in the UK. The Divinity School is the university’s oldest teaching and examination room, dating from the 1500s, and is a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture. The meal will be preceded by a preliminary tour of the 15th century Duke Humfrey’s Library, the oldest medieval reading room in the Bodleian Library and used as the Hogwarts Library in the Harry Potter films. Please note there is dining capacity for 120 guests so early booking is essential for this unique experience and will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

The formal Gala of the ESCFS will be held on the evening of Friday 23rd September when there will be a drinks and canapés reception between 6 – 7.30pm at the Natural History Museum. This is located in a large neo-Gothic building holding the University of Oxford’s zoological, entomological and geological specimens. Amongst its collections are the skeletons of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and the most complete remains of a dodo found anywhere in the world. After this, and following a short walk, the evening meal will be held at 8:00pm in the impressive Grand Hall in Balliol College, founded in 1263, making it one of the oldest colleges in Oxford.

I would like to warmly welcome all delegates and speakers coming from many parts of the world and offer my grateful thanks to our sponsors for their valuable financial support.

It is my hope that this conference will augment and expand the European interest in Craniofacial Surgery and I am delighted that the meeting will be held in Oxford, at a time when the Oxford Craniofacial Unit celebrates its 42th anniversary of foundation.

I hope you have a most rewarding and inspirational experience, and enjoy meeting old and new friends during your stay.

David Johnson MA (Cantab); BM BCh (Oxon); DM (Oxon); FRCS (Plast)
President of the European Society of Craniofacial Surgery (ESCFS)
Director of the Oxford Craniofacial Unit (OCU)
Hunterian Professor of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgeon