From local roots to regional reach: How DDU is shaping the future of spine surgery

What began as a single event has grown into a multi-regional program with a global reputation. From its origins in Australia and New Zealand to its expansion into Southeast Asia, DDU continues to reflect the values on which it was founded: surgeon-led learning, open dialogue, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. 

 A platform built by surgeons, for surgeons  

DDU’s success lies in its authenticity. Each year, the agenda is shaped by the surgeons themselves, ensuring the content is relevant, practical, and deeply engaging. Over time, the program has expanded beyond spinal deformity to cover the full spectrum of spinal surgery, including degenerative conditions, minimally invasive techniques, trauma, navigation, and other enabling technologies.  

The addition of early-career clinician labs and roundtables has further enriched the experience, offering tailored learning opportunities for the next generation of spine specialists. 

Expanding horizons: DDU ASEAN  

In 2021, DDU took its first steps into Southeast Asia with an online series aimed at fostering regional collaboration. That momentum led to the inaugural in-person DDU ASEAN meeting in Bali in 2024, and this year, the second edition was held in Cebu, Philippines, welcoming over 95 surgeons from across the region.  

Led by Transmedic Group, DDU ASEAN differs from its ANZ counterpart. Instead, it’s a regionally tailored experience that acknowledges the diverse realities of healthcare across Southeast Asia. With a focus on bridging practice gaps through case-based discussions and peer-to-peer learning, the forum creates space for meaningful exchange, grounded in local context. 

 'It's truly special to see DDU ASEAN return for its second year, and not just as an event, but as a growing movement of connection across the Southeast Asian spine community' - Keith Lee, GM Marketing and Strategy, Transmedic 

The inclusion of Filipino surgeons this year was especially significant, marking a deepening of EBOS MedTech’s presence in the Philippines through our acquisition with Pacific Surgical. The warmth of the local community and the spirit of collaboration made this year’s event truly memorable. 

Looking ahead: DDU ANZ 2025  

As we prepare for DDU ANZ’s 15th edition, an invite-only event, this August in Brisbane, we’re proud to welcome our most prominent international faculty yet, including key opinion leaders from the UK, France, and the USA. This year’s theme, “Mastering Fundamentals, Defining the Future,” invites us to reflect on the core principles of spinal surgery while exploring what’s next. 

Led by LifeHealthcare, this year’s program continues our commitment to incorporating diverse voices, with faculty selected not only for their expertise but also for the unique perspectives they bring. We’re especially proud to welcome two female key opinion leaders, Prof Emmanuelle Ferrero and Dr Andras Lindsay to the stage, as we work to elevate female voices in spine surgery both locally and globally.  

We’re also introducing new agenda highlights, including expert panels on treating obese patients and navigating the evolving challenges of clinical practice. Our continued partnership with The CatWalk Spinal Cord Injury Trust underscores our belief in education that not only informs but also inspires 

One program, many voices  

Across both DDU ANZ and DDU ASEAN, the program remains product-agnostic and surgeon-led—a space where knowledge is shared freely and partnerships are built on trust. For our suppliers and healthcare professionals, this cross-regional collaboration represents more than just an event. It’s a commitment to elevating care, together. 

At EBOS MedTech, we believe that education is most potent when it’s inclusive, relevant, and rooted in real-world experience. DDU is a testament to that belief — and as we look ahead, we’re committed to growing this platform even further.