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International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST)

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31st International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST)

Abstract submission is now open for the 31st IMAST! Submit Today!

Key Dates

*dates are subject to change

July 1, 2023 Abstract Submission Open
October 2, 2023 Abstract Submission Closes
December 4, 2023 Advanced Registration Opens
March 11, 2024 Advanced Rate Registration Ends
April 10-13, 2024 31st IMAST in San Diego, California, USA

 

About IMAST

The 31st International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST) will offer an in-person meeting experience, in San Diego, CA, where leading spine surgeons, innovative researchers, and the most advanced spine technologies come together in an international forum to demonstrate and discuss recent advances in spine surgery. IMAST focuses on innovative and new methods/techniques for spinal pathology. Educational content includes instructional course lectures, four-minute paper presentations, case discussions, E-Point Presentations, and industry workshops, all lead by a multidisciplinary and international faculty.

Meeting Venue

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
333 West Harbor Drive
San Diego, California 92101, USA

Abstracts

31st International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST)

San Diego, California, USA
April 10-13, 2024

Abstracts NOW open!

Submit an IMAST Abstract   Submit Your Disclosure

Key Dates

July 1, 2023 Abstract Submission Open
October 2, 2023 Abstract Submission Closes
Early December 2023 Abstract Acceptance Notifications
January 2024 Acceptance and Registration Deadline

 

Online Submission

All abstracts must be submitted online by Monday, October 2, 2023. No exceptions will be made.  

Abstract Categories

Abstract submission to IMAST must fit into one of the following categories to be considered for presentation. Authors can choose optional sub-categories to further classify their topic. More than one sub-category can be selected:

Categories Sub-Categories
  • Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
  • Adult Spinal Deformity
  • Basic Science, Biomechanics/Genetics  
  • Cervical Spine: Deformity, Degenerative
  • Complex: Spondylolisthesis, Tumor, Trauma
  • Degenerative Spinal Deformity
  • Early Onset Scoliosis
  • Kyphotic Deformities
  • Neuromuscular Scoliosis  
  • Quality/Safety/Value/Complications
  • Complications
  • Minimally Invasive
  • Motion Preservation
  • Novel Technique

 

Abstract Length

  • Maximum of 2,250 characters
  • Characters in the abstract title, body and table/image caption will be counted (including spaces)  
  • Characters in the author and institution listing will not be counted.  
  • Limited to one graph, figure, or table for each submitted abstract. No exceptions will be made.  

Disclosure and Licensing Requirement

ALL authors listed on an abstract will be required to submit a:

  • Financial disclosure form, including disclosure of ALL financial relationships, not only those pertaining to the topic of the abstract, from the past 24 months.  
  • FDA Disclosure Form  
  • Attestation and Non-exclusive License Form   

If authors on an abstract have not completed these required forms prior to the submission deadline, the abstract will NOT be reviewed or considered for the meeting program.

*Abstracts with authors missing a completed Financial Relationship Disclosure will NOT be reviewed.

Visit this link to disclose: https://owpm1.com/abstracts/IMAST/disclosure  

The username is the email associated with your abstract and the password your first name.

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Previous Publication or Presentation

Abstracts which have been published in journals, meeting proceedings, or other publications, as well as those presented at meetings prior to the SRS meeting to which authors wish to submit, are NOT eligible for submission. Only abstracts that have NOT been previously published or presented are eligible for submission.

Product-Specific Language

SRS strongly prefers that pharmaceuticals and proprietary software/databases as well as surgical approaches or specific instrumentation such as “Surgimap, MIMICS, EOS Imaging, ROTEM, Isola, TSRH, CD, XLIF, DLIF, AxiaLIF, Solera, Vertex, Expedium, Mountaineer, Shilla, VEPTR etc.,” are not used in presentations. These terms should be replaced by a generic term or description of the drug, software/database and/or instrumentation or technique unless the use of the term directly impacts learners’ understanding of the presentation or data. Instrumentation may also be referred to when the device name is a landmark system that is no longer sold (i.e. Harrington, Cotrel-Dubousset, Luque).

It is recognized that studies evaluating a device or devices or comparing different devices or techniques may require the use of product or technique names. If a device trade name or industry developed technique using a trademarked name are used in an abstract or presentation, it will be specifically reviewed by the CME Committee for evaluation of any potential conflict of interest. When there is a known potential conflict of interest, expanded verbal disclosure will be necessary at the time of presentation.

Furthermore, if a product name is mentioned, the audience should be informed of why it is necessary to give the name.

Abstract Review

All abstracts submitted will be reviewed and graded in blinded fashion by the IMAST Committee. Two-year follow-up is required for papers submitted to the Annual Meeting. Based upon abstract grading, those selected will be assigned to a four-minute oral presentation or three-minute E-Point presentation. Acceptance notification will be sent in December 2023.

Author Requirements

Attendance

By submitting an abstract to the Annual Meeting, abstract authors agree that at least one (1) author will attend the meeting and will be available to present on the date and time assigned.  

In addition, presenting authors are expected to register to attend the meetings for which they are accepted by the deadline set forth in their acceptance notification. Abstracts for which an author is not pre-registered by the dates set forth will automatically be withdrawn from the program.

All travel arrangements are the responsibility of the authors.  

Acceptance

All selected authors will be required to respond to a formal invitation by the deadline set forth in their acceptance notification.  

Authors without an account AND an updated disclosure cannot be added after this date. No exceptions will be made.

Podium Presentation Cancellation & No-Show Policy

Authors unable to present their paper in person should inform SRS as soon as possible with a co-author that can attend to present the paper. If no one can attend in person, please inform SRS by January, so an alternate paper can be substituted.

Please note: In the case of a "no-show" podium presentation, the presenting author associated with the "no-show" paper will be prohibited from presenting any papers at the next two Annual Meetings.

E-Point Presentation Cancellation Policy

At least one author or co-author on all E-Point presentations is expected to register to attend the meeting by the deadline set forth in their acceptance notification.  
If this author cancels their registration prior to the meeting, the E-Point presentation may be withdrawn from the program.

CME Review

All presentations must clear a CME review conducted by the SRS CME Committee. Presenters may be required to submit slides for review before the meeting and may be asked to make small or significant changes if a bias issue is found.

Failure to address pertinent CME review issues will result in pulling the presentation from the program and in a one-year ban for abstract presentations and a three-year ban for invited presentations.

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Registration

Advanced Registration for IMAST 2024 will open December 4, 2023.

In-Person Meeting Pricing

Registration Class Onsite Registration
On or before March 11, 2024
Onsite Registration
After March 12, 2024
SRS Member – Physician $900 $1,080
SRS Member – Non-Physician $450 $540
SRS Emeritus Member      $450 $540
Non-Member Physician $1,100 $1,320
Non-Member Non-Physician $550 $660
Resident / Fellow / Medical Student $450 $540
Delegate from Reduced Rate Country* $400 $480
 Industry Representative $1,150 $1,380


*Visit here for countries that qualify for reduced rate registration.

What is Included?

Registration policies are subject to change.

Registration

for participation at the meeting in San Diego, California, USA

  • Entrance to all general and concurrent sessions
  • Admission to the industry hands-on workshops
  • Meeting materials
  • Refreshment breaks and lunch
  • Certificate of attendance and CME credits
  • Meeting app with ARS capabilities for an interactive meeting experience
  • Access to meet face-to-face with exhibitors

Event Add-Ons

Times are subject to change.

Welcome Reception

Date: Wednesday, April 10
Location: Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Time: 18:00-20:00
Available at no charge to in-person meeting delegates, $50 for guests of registered delegates.

Reduced Rate Country Registration

View the list of countries that qualify for reduced rate registration.

Individuals residing in the countries listed at the link above qualify for reduced registration rates. When registering online, delegates should automatically be placed in the correct registration class based on the details collected during sign-in process.

Wire Transfers

Registrants may pay for their IMAST registration fees by wire transfer. Please note that some financial institutions charge a processing fee, which is deducted from the amount of the transfer. Partial payment may result in an incomplete registration. If you wish to pay with a wire transfer, please email meetings@srs.org for more information.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Full refunds, less a 10% processing fee, will be granted for the cancellation meeting registrations until March 11, 2024. No refunds will be granted after March 11, 2024. Cancellation and refund requests should be sent in writing via email to meetings@srs.org or faxed to 414-276-3349. Delegates will receive a confirmation and refund within 14 days of receipt of their cancellation notice.

Questions?

For registration questions, please contact the SRS Meetings team at meetings@srs.org.

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CME

ACCME ACCREDITATION STATEMENT

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the sponsorship of the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS). SRS is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Credit Designation

CME credit designation for IMAST 2024 will be made available soon. 

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Travel

About San Diego

San Diego is a beach city nestled in the beautiful California Pacific coastline. One of many of the city’s attractions include Balboa Park -- the site of the San Diego Zoo -- as art galleries, artist studios, museums, and gardens. The harbor is home to the USS Midway, a naval aircraft carrier that was the largest ship in the world until 1955, served the US Navy until 1992 and now is a military museum.

Arriving in San Diego

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the main airport in San Diego. SAN is located approximately 3.3 miles to the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina (333 West Harbor Drive).

Taxis or rideshares (Uber, Lyft) are commonly used and available at the airport.

Passports and Visas

To enter the United States, international travelers are required to have a valid passport. A visa is required for the citizens of countries that do not have visa-exempt agreements with the U.S.

Please visit the U.S. government travel site, to confirm if you would require a visa in entering the U.S.

Please contact your local United States Consulate to learn more about visa acquisition. Please note, SRS is unable to submit a visa application on the registrant’s behalf. The decision to grant visas is at the sole Discretion of the embassy/consulate. The meeting organizers cannot change the decision of the governmental agency should your application be denied.

Advance travel planning and early visa application are important. It is recommended that you apply early for your visa.

Climate

In early April, the average high-temperature in San Diego is 69°F (20.55°C), and the average low-temperature is 56°F (13.33°C).

Time Zone

San Diego will be in the Pacific Daylight Savings Time (PDT) during IMAST, which is three (3) hours behind US Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) and eight (8) hours behind Greenwich Mean Time, GMT-8.

Electricity

Seattle operates on a 110-120V (60 Hz) supply voltage. For the U.S. there are two associated plug types, types A and B.

Type A = Two flat parallel pins
Type B = Two flat parallel pins & a grounding pin

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FAQs

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AFFILIATE MEETING SPACE

All affiliate function requests need to be submitted online. Visit here for the online Affiliate Space Request Form.

Once approved, SRS will handle all space requests on a first-come, first-served basis. All requests must go through the online approval process before space will be granted.

Please remember the following guidelines when requesting space for an affiliate function:

  • No entertainment functions, meetings, courses or social functions involving surgeon delegates may be scheduled to conflict with SRS meeting program hours, activity hours, exhibit hours or social events. Internal corporate meetings involving supporter or affiliate organization staff only are exempt from this limitation.
  • Entertainment and social functions must be in good taste and conform to the purpose of the meeting, as well as complying with all AdvaMed guidelines governing interaction with physicians.
  • SRS should be notified in writing of any special activities (whether entertainment, education or promotional in nature) planned by an affiliated company for the period during which SRS meeting function occur.
  • Announcements and invitations addressed to members of the medical profession concerning such industry events should clearly indicate the name of the corporate support and must in no manner imply directly or indirectly that the event is part of, or an official activity of, SRS.
  • Attendee lists provided by SRS to Corporate Supporters, either as part of the Benefits of Support outlined in the Corporate Support Program are intended for a one-time, meeting-related use only.  All announcements and invitations addressed to SRS meeting delegates should be pre-approved by SRS.
  • Company is responsible for ordering F&B and/or AV needs for affiliate space. Company is responsible for all expenses and billing will be handled directly between the company and hotel.
GENERAL

What is IMAST?

The 31st International Meeting on Advanced Spinal Techniques (IMAST) is an in person meeting experience that provides a scientific forum for leading spine surgeons, innovative researchers, and the most advanced spine technologies from around the world to come together to demonstrate recent advances in spine surgery. For two days, spine surgeons and other allied health professionals from around the world discuss, debate and demonstrate recent advances in spine surgery. Educational content includes didactic presentations, papers on current research, E-Point Presentations, case discussions, debates, instructional course lectures, and video demonstrations all lead by a multidisciplinary and international faculty.

What is appropriate attire for IMAST?

Business casual attire (collared shirts, and jeans or khakis) is appropriate for IMAST sessions.

Who can attend IMAST?

IMAST invites those who include spinal surgery techniques or technology in their profession, including spine surgeons (both orthopedic and neurological surgeons), residents, fellows, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, engineers, and company personnel.

What language is spoken at IMAST?

Presentations and meeting materials will be provided in English.

Where is IMAST 2024?

The 31st IMAST will be held at Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina in San Diego, California, United States.

Which Program Should I Submit To?  

IMAST Annual Meeting

(Submissions will open in late 2023)
  • Approximately 500 attendees
  • 2.5- day meeting
  • Program includes: Instructional Course Lectures, Scientific Program, Expert Roundtable Discussions, Case Based Discussions, Hands-On Workshops, Debates, Industry Workshops, and E-Point presentations.
  • The program is divided between pediatric deformity; adult deformity; degenerative, cervical, tumor, and trauma.
  • Podium presentations are four-minutes in length
  • One-year follow-up on abstract submissions
  • Features topics focused on new, innovative, and advanced techniques
  • Approximately 1,000 attendees
  • 4-day meeting
  • Program includes: Pre-Meeting Course, Scientific Program, Half-Day Courses, Lunchtime Symposia, Case Based Discussions, Industry Workshops, and E-Point presentations.
  • Podium presentations are four-minutes in length
  • Case Discussions are seven-minutes in length
  • Two-year follow-up on abstract submissions
  • Feature latest and greatest scientific research, methods, and techniques in spinal deformity
REGISTRATION

How do I register for IMAST?

Registration for the 31st IMAST will open on December 4, 2023. Registering during the Advanced Registration period is encouraged. Please view the Registration Page for registration options and rates.

How long will registration be open?

Advanced registration for the in-person meeting will close on March 25, 2023 (on-site registrations will be available beginning April  10, 2024).

What is included in my Registration?

Registration

for participation at the meeting in San Diego, California

  • Entrance to all general and concurrent sessions
  • Admission to the industry hands-on workshops
  • Meeting materials
  • Refreshment breaks and lunch
  • Certificate of attendance and CME credits
  • Meeting app with ARS capabilities for an interactive meeting experience
  • Access to meet face-to-face with exhibitors

How do I receive the reduced resident/fellow/medical student registration rate?

To register as a resident, fellow or medical student you will need to select "Other" when you are asked what is your specialty/practice during the online registration process. Selecting "Other" will allow you to receive the reduced resident/fellow/medical student registration rate.

How do I receive the Reduced Rate Country Registration rate?

View the list of countries that qualify for reduced rate registration.
Individuals residing in the countries listed at the link above qualify for reduced registration rates. When registering online, delegates will automatically be placed in the correct registration class based on the details collected during sign-in process.

Can I pay for my registration by Wire Transfer?

Please contact SRS at meetings@srs.org for more information on payment options.

How do I register multiple people to IMAST?

For information on registering a group of five (5) individuals or more, please email SRS at meetings@srs.org

How do I obtain an invitation letter to attend IMAST in-person?

Only participants registered for the in-person meeting can obtain a personal invitation letter. Individuals that require an invitation letter to obtain a visa in order to attend the meeting must:

  1. Register for the in-person meeting.
  2. Request a Letter of Invitation by emailing the information below to the SRS Meetings Team at meetings@srs.org.
    • Full Name and Designation
    • Company/Institution
    • Address
    • City
    • Country
    • Passport Number (only if required)

SRS cannot assist participants with the visa application process and cannot intervene with embassies or consulates on behalf of participants. The letter of invitation does not financially obligate the Scoliosis Research Society in any way. Please see the Travel page for more information on invitation letters to obtain a visa.

What is the meeting registration cancellation and refund policy?

Full refunds, less a 10% processing fee, will be granted for the cancellation meeting registrations until March 25, 2024. No refunds will be granted after March 25, 2024. Cancellation and refund requests should be sent in writing via email to meetings@srs.org or faxed to 414-276-3349. Delegates will receive a confirmation and refund within 14 days of receipt of their cancellation notice.

CME & MEMBERSHIP

How do I get my CME Certificate?

To claim CME and download attendance certificates, go to the CME webpage and sign in with your last (family) name and your SRS ID#. You will need to indicate the sessions you attended and then a PDF certificate will be generated for you to download and print. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

Contact:

Scoliosis Research Society
Meetings Department
555 E. Wells Street, Suite 1100, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: +1-414-289-9107
Fax: +1-414-276-3349
Email: meetings@srs.org