Dr. Hamid Abbasi to Lead Spine Surgery Training Programs in UAE and Pakistan

Dr. Hamid Abbasi, a prominent neurosurgeon based in the United States, is set to lead advanced spine surgery training programs in both Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. This initiative aims to enhance surgical techniques and patient care in regions that have limited access to such specialized training.

November 26, 2025, marks the beginning of Dr. Abbasi’s journey as he heads to Dubai to participate in the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) meeting. During this important event, he will conduct hands-on training sessions focused on two innovative surgical techniques: the Oblique Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (OLLIF) and Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ) fusion. These methods are noted for their potential to reduce surgical trauma, shorten hospital stays, and expedite patient recovery.

Before arriving in Dubai, Dr. Abbasi will stop in Karachi, Pakistan, where he will collaborate with Professor Salman Sharif and his team at the Pakistan Society of Neurosurgeons. This segment of his tour includes performing live surgeries and leading a cadaveric lab aimed at providing residents and fellows with practical exposure to precision-based minimally invasive techniques. Such techniques are not widely taught in conventional training programs, making this an invaluable opportunity for local surgeons.

Following the WFNS meeting, Dr. Abbasi will extend his stay in the UAE to work alongside Dr. Munshi, where they will conduct an additional workshop on OLLIF and SIJ procedures. This workshop is designed to offer surgeon-level training and demonstrate the reproducibility of these advanced techniques in high-volume surgical settings.

Dr. Abbasi’s extensive experience includes performing over 2,000 OLLIF cases, establishing him as a pioneer of the TransKambin approach. His published outcomes indicate impressive fusion rates, minimal blood loss, and reduced operative time, even in complex multilevel or revision cases. His international training initiatives focus on knowledge transfer and the establishment of regional competency centers capable of delivering advanced spine care to underserved populations.

In his own words, Dr. Abbasi expressed his commitment to these efforts, stating: “We are proud to be in Pakistan and Dubai, and we are equally committed to transferring this technology to other countries around the world. The contents of this small bag are all we need to take care of half a dozen patients in Pakistan, with no need for expensive technologies such as a million dollar robot or navigation system. Our goal is to transfer knowledge and technology globally, and that is our commitment to our colleagues everywhere.”

Dr. Abbasi’s work not only aims to improve surgical practices but also seeks to empower local healthcare professionals by providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to deliver high-quality care. His leadership in these training programs reflects a commitment to advancing spine surgery techniques in regions where they are most needed.

For media inquiries or to request meeting schedules, please contact the Inspired Spine administrative office.