Apr 30, 2024

Toronto Western Hospital's Neuroanesthesia Fellowship Welcomes 100th Fellow

Dr. Aishvarya Shree Nedunchezian against a black background

The Neuroanesthesia Fellowship Program at Toronto Western Hospital (TWH) has welcomed its 100th neuroanesthesia fellow, Dr. Aishvarya Shree Nedunchezian, from India, into the esteemed program. 

In a joint statement to recognize the occasion, Program Director, Neuroanesthesiology Fellowship, Toronto Western Hospital, Dr. Tumul Chowdhury, Site Chief, Toronto Western Hospital and Women’s College Hospital, Dr. Sheila Riazi, and Chief, University Health Network, Sinai Health System, and Women’s College Hospital, Dr. Keyvan Karkouti said, "As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we reflect on the incredible journey that has brought us to this point. Our fellowship program stands as a beacon of excellence, attracting the brightest minds in neuroanesthesia and equipping them with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in patient care, research, and education."

Dr. Pirjo Manninen and Dr. Lakshmikumar Venkat Raghavan
From left: Dr. Lakshmikumar Venkat Raghavan and Dr. Pirjo Manninen

They also praised the work of Dr. Pirjo Manninen for her innovation and unwavering commitment to advancing the field of neuroanesthesia, as well as Dr. Lakshmikumar Venkat Raghavan, who was the program's director for over 12 years. 

"We owe a great debt of gratitude to Dr. Manninen, whose visionary leadership and tireless efforts have been instrumental in shaping the foundation of our fellowship program. Her foresight and expertise have guided us through countless challenges and triumphs, laying the groundwork for the exceptional program we have today.

"We also commend Dr. Venkat Raghavan's passion for education, coupled with his vast knowledge and experience in neuroanesthesia, which has been the driving force behind the success of our fellowship program. His steadfast dedication to mentorship and excellence has inspired countless fellows to reach new heights in their careers."

Since its inception, the program has trained fellows from 22 countries. Graduates of the program have become leading clinicians, researchers, educators, and leaders in the neuroanesthesia field worldwide.

The neuroanesthesia fellowship at TWH is the first anesthesia fellowship program at the University of Toronto that is accredited by the International Council of Perioperative Neuroscience Training.