The journey of MISSAB over the past decade is marked by impactful milestones that reflect its evolution from a visionary idea to a nationally respected institution. This section presents a chronological timeline of major events and defining moments that have shaped the association’s identity and influence.
From its inception in 2015 to hosting national-level MISS conferences, launching academic forums, expanding training Initiatives, and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic with agility, MISSAB has consistently adapted and grown. The development of state chapters, international collaborations, and landmark workshops have each contributed to building a robust spine surgery ecosystem in India
Foundation & Early Vision (2014-2016)
MISSICON Ahmedabad 2014 marked the beginning of MISSAB’s journey, bringing together leading spine surgeons to share techniques and build a national network. Subsequent conferences in Mumbai (2015) and Delhi (2016) continued this momentum, reinforcing MISSAB’s goal of fostering peer learning across India.
Quote from Founder President Dr. ArvindJayaswal:
“It is indeed wonderful to see the progress we have made… MISSI is an initiative intended to bridge this gap.”
Growth in Fellowship & Techniques
The MISSAB Short-Term Fellowship Program was established to upgrade surgical skills across centers nationwide. As Past President Dr. ShrinivasRohidas noted:
“Technology has changed a lot… developments in instruments like endoscopic drills… has changed the awareness among young spine surgeons.”
Live Workshops & Global Reach (2019)
In April 2019, a world-first 3-day LIVE 3-D surgery broadcast from Fortis Bangalore to JW Marriott Bangalore trained over 300+ surgeons. The event, led by Dr. Rajakumar Deshpande, was a significant milestone.
Reflection from Dr. Deshpande:
“Minimally-invasive techniques are taking on conventional methods… this workshop aims to train young surgeons onadvanced techniques.”
Academic & Collaborative Engagement
MISSAB became an official partner of the Journal of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and Technique (IMISST) in collaboration with KOMISS in 2021. Dr. Deshpande remarked:
“This heralds a new era of friendship and scientific collaboration…”
The Journal Club Webinars launched during the COVID-19 pandemic received encouraging responses.
National Conferences & Outreach
The MISSABCON annual conference series, including MISSABCON 2022 and the upcoming MISSABCON 2024 in Gandhinagar, features over 160 experts. 23+ international faculty, cadaver labs, and 250+ advanced talks.
Reflections on Challenges & Triumphs
Dr. Deshpande emphasized surgeon safety during the pandemic
“Err on the side of caution. this too shall pass, if we survive to tell the tale.”
Dr. Rohidas advised realistic progress
“We should not run behind 100% goal… work hard for reachable goals… through our mistakes.”
| 2014-16 | Launch of MISSICON chapters across major Indian cities |
| 2019 | MIS Live Cadaver Workshop with 3-D broadcast-Fortis Bangalore |
| 2021 | Formal academic collaboration via JMISST journal |
| 2022-24 | MISSABCON national conferences with global participation and cadaver labs |
| Ongoing | Webinars, fellowship programs, journal clubs, and outreach initiatives |
MISSAB has evolved from its inception in 2014 into a national leader in minimally invasive spine surgery. Through live workshops, journal partnerships, and robust fellowships, the association continues to champion skill development, evidence-based practice, and collaborative learning. Its journey is a testament to visionary leadership and community driven progress.