Vienna, Austria – July 25, 2022 – The European Congress of Radiology returned home last week with a stunning and sunny congress that catered to both online and onsite attendees. The congress welcomed more than 15,000 participants, solidifying ECR as a true hybrid meeting that can offer ground-breaking science, research and networking for all, regardless of how they choose to participate.
The last onsite ECR was held in 2019 with the congress moving to an online format for two years thereafter. The much-awaited return to Vienna last week marked a moment of magic as colleagues and friends reunited to celebrate the latest advancements in the world of radiology. The summer setting set a brand-new tone for the congress and ensured that the meeting could take place a safe environment.
“I am overwhelmed by the number of people who chose to embrace this congress and its theme of Building Bridges”, said ESR President, Professor Regina Beets-Tan. “This meeting marked a special moment in European radiology. From here, we move forward together as a profession, understanding the importance of multidisciplinary care and how interaction with our partners in the healthcare continuum can ultimately benefit the patient. Thank you to all the faculty. Thank you to our exhibitors. Thank you to the ESR staff. And most importantly, thank you to our more than 15,000 participants from across the world.”
Setting the perfect tone for the rest of the congress, the Opening Ceremony on Wednesday was a show to remember. Alongside beautiful animations and stunning performances by celebrated singer Kimberly Rydell and the Vienna Arts Orchestra, Prof. Beets-Tan set out her vision for radiology. The Opening theme ‘Shine’ was especially fitting. The ceremony took place on the night of a super moon which will not shine brighter than it did on Wednesday in the next 12 years. You can watch the full Opening Ceremony for free here.
A number of new highlights made their debut at ECR 2022. The Open Forums, four locations in open spaces around the congress centre, proved to be especially popular. These forums catered to topics for radiographers and young radiologists, and also gave a platform for the ESR to present some of its numerous educational and research activities.
Patients in Focus, another new programme, offered a stage for doctors and patients to connect in a series of highly informative sessions. The programme also saw the launch of Be accepted – a tool for women with cancer to help support and inform them during their patient journey. You can view all Patients in Focus and Be accepted sessions for free on-demand on ESR Connect.
The Cube returned this year – a whole section of the congress dedicated to interventional radiology. One of the most popular aspects of this hub, was the simulator adventure park, which gave participants the opportunity to view and demo the hottest tech in IR.
Another returning feature, after a successful debut in 2019, was the AI Exhibition and Theatre. Here, companies provided a diverse range of booths, pitches and lectures, with a special focus on the future of radiology.
The industry also had a strong presence at the meeting, with 269 exhibiting companies introducing their new technology, products and services through countless booths and satellite symposia. Key industry partners set up digital villages directly in the Austria Center, creating an interactive and enjoyable way for visitors to discover their innovations. You can view all Industry sessions for free on-demand on ESR Connect.
Another new space this year was the Summer Lounge. This huge area hosted the registration desk, ESR Meets booths and a bar and restaurant offering a great break-out space for participants between sessions. In addition, the chance to get vaccinated against COVID-19 was offered in the lounge to any and all visitors – a unique opportunity.
You can still visit our ECR 2022 Photo Gallery on ESR Connect to see many of highlights from the congress.
The European Congress of Radiology will return on July 5-9, 2023 with the theme of ‘The Cycle of Life’. To view and download the congress poster click here.
The official country statistics can be found here.
Information regarding abstract submission and registration for next year’s meeting will be available soon.