A transatlantic milestone: My experience at CSUR26 and the 81st CUA Annual Meeting

An incredible milestone in my professional journey took place in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, where I had the privilege of attending the 19th Canadian Senior Urology Residents (CSUR26) Annual Scientific Retreat. Supported by the European Association of Urology (EAU), this retreat provided an exceptional platform for learning and international collaboration. 

Sun, 16 Aug 2026By Dr. Giovanni Drocchi (SC Urologia ASL4, Lavagna, Genova [IT])
CSUREAU CUAInternational RelationsEAU ExecutiveEAU Membership Office
3 men in suits
From left to right: Dr. Bradley Reynolds, myself, and Dr. Andrew Silagy

The retreat began with high-level scientific sessions and interactive case discussions that provided key insights into state-of-the-art urological practice. The environment was incredibly stimulating, offering space for open dialogue and cross-border exchange of clinical approaches. The comprehensive programme covered a wide array of crucial sub-specialties, allowing us to dive deep into:

  • Essential principles in genital trauma and reconstruction
  • Tips and tricks in robotic ureteric surgery
  • The work-up and management of male infertility
  • Uro-oncological perspectives on landmark prostate studies
  • Case based urodynamics and clinical lessons in managing urologic chronic pelvic pain and uroradiology
  • Strategic advice for building a successful urology practice
Group of men in suits standing in front of an event poster
From left to right: Dr. Silagy, Dr. Reynolds, Dr. Trustin Domes, Dr. Yannic Volz, Prof. Jens Rassweiler, myself, Dr. Göksel Bayar, and Dr. Krystian Kaczmarek

The 81st CUA Annual Meeting: A broader scientific lens

Following the CSUR Retreat, the transition to the 81st Annual Meeting of the Canadian Urological Association (CUA) offered an even broader scientific and professional perspective. The meeting showcased exceptional, up-to-date scientific content, ranging from paediatric urology to advanced uro-oncology. The accessibility of top Canadian and international faculty, combined with a highly collaborative atmosphere, made the learning experience truly exceptional. It highlighted the immense value of the cooperation fostered by the EAU and the CUA in advancing urology on a global level and exchanging best clinical practices.

Two men in suits wearing a lanyard standing in practical training area
Dr. Wassim Kassouf (previous CUA President) and I

Connecting cultures, building bridges

Beyond the academic excellence, this experience provided a unique opportunity to build lasting professional friendships. The warm hospitality of our Canadian colleagues in Saskatoon made the event truly memorable. Furthermore, the chance to meet, interact, and spend time with two delegates from the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (USANZ) added a fantastic, truly global dimension to the networking aspect of the trip. These informal social moments gave profound depth to the scientific exchange and underscored the universal nature of our specialty.

4 men standing next to a vertical event poster
From left to right: Dr. Stephen Steele, Dr. Reynolds, myself, and Dr. Silagy

Reflections and takeaways

Alongside my previous experiences at the European Urology Resident Education Programme (EUREP) and achieving my Fellow of the European Board of Urology (FEBU) status, attending CSUR26 and the CUA Annual Meeting has played a pivotal role in shaping my career.

This experience was a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to advancing urological care through education and meaningful international dialogue. I am deeply grateful to the EAU for their sponsorship and support, and to the CUA for organising such an enriching programme. I sincerely hope that many more young urologists will have the chance to benefit from these outstanding educational initiatives in the future.

More knowledge resources

If you are an early‑career urologist keen to broaden your knowledge and enhance your clinical practice at acclaimed Canadian institutions, the EAU and CUA also offers an excellent exchange programme.

You can find out more about our other exchange programmes, where you'll discover opportunities to learn best practices from urological communities around the world.

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