Dear Colleagues,

The 42nd edition of the European Society of Surgical Oncology congress in Florence was a significant success drawing together close to 1200 delegates from 82 countries worldwide. With over 850 abstracts submitted and 623 presented at the Congress, the ESSO 42 was a record-breaking edition across the board.

This year, we want to make the upcoming congress even more memorable. From Wednesday 2 October to Friday 4 October, we’d like to welcome you to the city of Antwerp, Belgium.

In a world where rapid technological development accelerates knowledge expiration, it is crucial for us as the European Society of Surgical Oncology to serve as a dynamic forum for surgical oncologists. We see it as our responsibility to keep our colleagues informed on the latest developments and advancements in the field of Surgical Oncology. It is of great importance to empower surgeons through an open platform where exchange with experts and peer fellows is at a state-of-art level.

With this in mind, the theme of the ESSO 43 congress is set for: ‘Surgical Oncology Tomorrow: Innovation and Education’. The scientific programme will cover the main solid tumours, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, hepatobiliary cancer, upper GI cancer, melanoma, sarcoma, endocrine tumours and peritoneal surface malignancies. Sessions will address topics such as neoadjuvant systemic therapies, robotic resections, Artificial Intelligence, imaging, fluorescence-guided surgery, advanced technology for improved visualisation and teaching, cytoreductive surgery, management of the axilla after neoadjuvant treatment, intraoperative ultrasound to improve outcomes, immediate breast reconstruction, and many more. The three-day comprehensive programme will also feature discussions and presentations on shared decision-making, interspecialty training, women in surgery, or Surgical oncology research.

We hope this year’s congress will inspire innovative ideas and encourage increased creativity in cancer treatment. Afterall, we want to see all cancer patients be ensured with better surgery outcomes and enhanced quality of life thanks to up-to-date education and practices received by their doctors.

There is no better place to host ESSO 43 than Antwerp, a vibrant city with its spirit of curiosity and exploring. Once an insignificant city, Antwerp underwent a drastic surge in the 16th century, becoming the European centre of trade and arts, where innovation meets history.

As always, ESSO 43 will be an exceptional gathering for delegates to interact with the experts in Surgical Oncology, and colleagues from all around the world. Join us in Antwerp from 2 October to 4 October and be part of this unforgettable experience.

We very much look forward to welcoming you in Antwerp.

Professor Isabel-Teresa Rubio

ESSO 43 Scientific Chair
ESSO President

Dr Paul Willemsen

ESSO 43 Local Congress Chair