Our History
Formation of the Society
The formation of the European Society of Neurosonology an Cerebral Hemodynamics (WON/ESNCH) was proposed by Professor David Russell in a letter to leading European Scientists in this field in December 1993.
In August 1994 Professor Russell sent a more general invitation to European Scientists inviting them to attend an inaugural meeting during the 8th International Cerebral Hemodynamics Symposium which was organized by Professor E.B. Ringelstein in Münster, Germany from 25th – 27th September 1994. The inaugural meeting of the WON/ESNCH was held on 26th September 1994.
The first meeting of the WON/ESNCH was organized by Professor J. Klingelhöfer and PD Eva Bartels in Munich, Germany from 29th August – 1st September 1996. The statutes of the Society were accepted by a General Assembly on 27th May 1997 during the 2nd Meeting of the ESNCH which was organized by Professor R.G. Ackerstaff from 25th – 28th May 1997.
The first Executive Committee consisted of Professor D. Russell ( President ), Professor J. Klingelhöfer ( secretary ), PD Eva Bartels ( treasurer ), Professor R.G. Ackerstaff, Professor D. Grosset, Professor K. Niederkorn, Professor E.B. Ringelstein, Professor E. Zanette. The society was, following this meeting, registered as a non-profit organisation, in Oslo, Norway.
Members distribution by countries
Albania
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bangladesh
Belgium
Bosnia&Herzegovina
Brazil
Bulgaria
China
Croatia
Czech Republic
Denmark
Egypt
Estland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iran
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Japan
Korea
Latvia
Lithuana
Macedonia
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Slovak Republic
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
The Netherlands
Turkey
United Kingdom
USA
Uzbekistan
Message of Our President
João Sargento Freitas, MD, PhD - WON/ESNCH President
It is a great honour to serve as President of the World Organization of Neurosonology. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me by our community and mindful of the legacy I am now entrusted to uphold. Since its foundation under the visionary leadership of Prof. David Russell, the WON—then known as the European Society of Neurosonology and Cerebral Hemodynamics—has evolved from a pioneering group of clinicians and researchers into the leading international society dedicated to Neurosonology. Over the years, many colleagues have contributed to shaping the identity of WON/ESNCH, and I am deeply honoured to continue this mission—now in the role of President. This responsibility is carried out in close guidance from the newly elected Executive Committee and, in particular, with our new Secretary General, Prof. Uwe Walter, whose dedication, partnership, and friendship greatly strengthen our work as a cohesive and forward‑looking team. As we look forward, my commitment is to honour this history while preparing the WON/ESNCH for the future through three strategic pillars: Society Management, Scientific Production & Outreach, and Education.
1. Society Management
We will modernize our internal structures to make WON/ESNCH more agile and efficient. This includes introducing AI‑supported tools to improve communication, analytics, and administrative workflows; enhancing data safety and governance; and proposing new roles such as a Scientific Secretary to support the Society’s growing needs. Automated membership management will ensure a smoother experience for our members, while freeing our Executive Committee members to focus more fully on scientific and strategic initiatives.
2. Scientific Production & Outreach
Strengthening the scientific voice of WON/ESNCH is essential for our future. We will work to develop robust guidelines and recommendations across key areas of Neurosonology, while fostering collaboration with partner organizations worldwide. Increasing the visibility and accessibility of our scientific content will allow us to share knowledge more effectively and ensure that Neurosonology remains at the forefront of neurovascular medicine.
3. Education
Education is the heart of our Society and of its strengths throughout the year! Reinforcing it is a core priority. We aim to expand learning opportunities, support young colleagues, and strengthen the work of our specialized Working Groups. By aligning educational initiatives with scientific goals, we will ensure that the next generation of Neurosonologists receives high‑quality training and clear pathways for professional development.Together, these initiatives will help us innovate responsibly, engage our community more deeply, and continue advancing excellence in Neurosonology. I look forward to working with all of you to build a strong, modern, and active WON/ESNCH that reflects both our history and our ambition for the future.
With warm regards,João Sargento Freitas, MD, PhDWON/ESNCH President