The 2025 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting brought thousands of neurosurgeons, researchers, and healthcare professionals to Boston from April 25–28 to explore the future of neurosurgery. This year’s theme, “Power of One, Impact of Many,” honored the vital contributions of individuals whose work drives progress in the field—while underscoring the importance of collaboration in shaping patient care and innovation.
We were more than excited to attend (Boston being in our backyard certainly made the trip easier!) and engage with customers, connect with industry leaders, and showcase how our data and analytics can help physicians, providers, and healthcare organizations better understand the neurology landscape and unlock new growth opportunities.
Missed this year’s conference? Just looking for a refresher on some things you may have missed? We’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some of the major highlights of AANS 2025.
AI was everywhere at AANS
AI was the driving force behind many of the most promising conversations in neurosurgery at AANS 2025. From surgical planning to post-op monitoring, AI is transforming how physicians diagnose, treat, and manage neurology patients.
Here are some of the most exciting AI trends and insights we took away from the event:
1. Remote monitoring and virtual diagnostics
AI-powered tools are making it possible for physicians to monitor patients in real-time, interpret imaging and test results remotely, and even assist in triaging care. This shift is especially powerful in rural or underserved areas where patients often face long wait times or travel distances to reach specialized care. By enabling faster and more distributed decision-making, AI is expanding access without compromising quality.
2. AI-driven decision support
Several conversations focused on clinical decision support systems that use machine learning to analyze complex datasets—from imaging to EHRs and more—to guide treatment.
The great part is that these tools aren’t designed to replace physicians. Instead, these tools enhance their judgment by analyzing patterns and risks that may not be immediately visible and then making data-driven recommendations. This can mean earlier detection of complications, more personalized treatment plans, and better surgical outcomes.
3. A strategic opportunity with new physicians
One of the more actionable insights from the conference: Early-career neurosurgeons are significantly more open to adopting AI-driven solutions than their older counterparts. Now, this isn’t to say that more established physicians and neurosurgeons are behind on the times, but the simple truth is that the new blood in the neurology field are digital natives, often trained with simulation platforms, and are more comfortable integrating new tech into clinical workflows. For companies developing AI-powered tools, this demographic represents a prime entry point—one that could accelerate adoption and influence institutional change.
4. Operational and administrative efficiency
AI isn’t just enhancing patient care; it’s also streamlining backend operations. From automated documentation to predictive staffing models, hospitals and surgical centers are using AI to reduce administrative burden and improve resource allocation. That’s increasingly important as providers face burnout and staffing shortages.
When selling into the neurology market, it’s smart to think broadly
For companies developing products, services, or technologies aimed at neurosurgeons, one lesson from AANS 2025 stood out clearly: The neurosurgeon is rarely the sole decision-maker. Whether you're offering clinical tools, diagnostic technologies, software, or service partnerships, selling into the neurology market requires a broader, more strategic approach.
That’s because purchasing decisions are becoming increasingly collaborative. Here's why that matters:
Nursing teams influence usability and adoption
Products that are complicated to use or disrupt clinical workflows will face resistance—even if they offer clinical benefits. Engaging nurses and OR staff early can surface usability concerns and improve the chance of successful rollout.
Stakeholder alignment shortens sales cycles
Too often, companies focus on just one champion to pave the way to a successful sale. But building consensus among all relevant stakeholders up front can reduce friction, avoid last-minute objections, and speed up implementation timelines.
Hospital executives hold budget authority
Even if a neurosurgeon champions your product, hospital leadership, including CFOs, CIOs, and department heads, often controls the final purchasing decisions. That means vendors must speak both the clinical and business language, showing how solutions improve outcomes and reduce cost, risk, or time.
Multidisciplinary care models are the norm
Neurosurgeons often work closely with neurologists, radiologists, anesthesiologists, and advanced practice providers. If your solution touches more than one point in the care pathway, you need to demonstrate value across the entire team—not just to the surgeon.
Success in this market demands more than a great solution—it requires deep understanding of the neurology ecosystem, clear communication with diverse stakeholders, and data that maps influence across provider networks.
Fortunately, we have you covered. Our Market Intelligence product helps you thoroughly analyze the neurology market from any angle. Looking to identify the right experts for your goals? Monocl ExpertInsight connects you with key opinion leaders and researchers. Need to engage providers with tailored outreach? PhysicianView helps you target the right physicians with the right message at the right time.
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Events like AANS 2025 remind us that innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s the product of many voices—physicians, researchers, tech leaders, and frontline care teams—working toward better outcomes.
At Definitive Healthcare, we’re excited to partner with organizations that are helping neurology and neurosurgery evolve through data, insights, and smarter strategies. Start a free trial today to learn how we can help you stay on top of the latest trends, understand the market inside and out, and elevate your strategic planning.
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