GSC 2026 in Istanbul sets new benchmarks in science and participation

The Global Spine Congress 2026 (GSC) in Istanbul brought together the global spine community for what many described as the most dynamic and engaging edition to date. With strong scientific contributions, broad international participation, and a palpable sense of momentum, this year’s congress reinforced GSC’s position as a leading platform for advancing spine care worldwide.

Record participation and a new generation stepping forward

GSC 2026 saw record levels of participation and scientific content with:

• 2,664 abstracts
• 2,500 attendees from over 80 countries 
• 80+ exhibitors
• 142 sessions on 8 stages over 3 days
• Around 1,000 surgeons presented on stage
• 50 oral paper sessions, 20 rapid-fire sessions, 1,742 accepted E-posters
• 11 industry symposia, 45 scientific symposia, 13 society symposia
• 22 theater sessions 9 pre-courses/workshops, 6 members-only sessions 

With this, the congress continues to reflect its core strength of global diversity bringing together surgeons from a wide range of practice settings.

This year’s meeting was also characterized by the unprecedentedly broad involvement of next generation surgeons and researchers. From abstract submissions to podium, e-poster, and Rapid-Fire presentations, early-career clinicians played a visible and active role, contributing fresh perspectives and driving clinically relevant discussions across sessions.

A congress defined by energy and exchange

All through the congress and beyond the scientific program, the energy felt across the congress stood out in lecture halls, networking spaces, and informal discussions.

Participants highlighted the openness of exchange, the willingness to challenge ideas, and the collaborative spirit that continues to differentiate GSC from more regionally focused meetings. The ability to discuss innovations from minimally invasive techniques to navigation and robotics in a critical, evidence-based environment remained central to the congress experience.