The 21st Balkan Congress of Radiology, held in Bulgaria October 8-11, brings together radiologists to address imaging challenges through cardiac imaging courses, AI implementation sessions, and specialized clinical tracks while honoring the legacy of Prof. Miloš Lučić, a respected neuroradiologist and advocate for cross-border collaboration in European radiology.
- The 21st Balkan Congress of Radiology takes place October 8-11 in Golden Sands, Bulgaria, with main scientific sessions on October 9-10.
- Congress programming covers cardiac imaging, abdominal oncology, paediatric imaging, AI implementation, chest imaging, interventional neuroradiology, and emergency radiology.
- An ESOR cardiac imaging course opens the congress with lectures and rotating workshops on acute chest pain, ischaemic heart disease, and cardiomyopathies.
- A joint AI and Japanese College of Radiology session explores AI implementation in practice with perspectives from Japan.
- The congress honors Prof. Miloš A. Lučić, late Balkan Society of Radiology president, through dedicated neuroradiology sessions celebrating his 20+ years advancing European radiology education and cross-border collaboration.
“In the Balkans, we have a lot in common in our profession, in our needs, and more broadly in our spirituality,” write the organizers of the 21st Balkan Congress of Radiology, which heads to Bulgaria this October.
Joining forces with the 21st Congress of the Bulgarian Association of Radiology, the meeting brings radiologists, residents, radiographers, and students to the International Hotel in Golden Sands, near Varna. Activities run from 8-11 October, with the main scientific sessions on 9-10 October.
Congress president Prof. George Hadjidekov and program planning committee chair Assoc. Prof. Efrosini Papadaki steer a program connecting clinical challenges with new techniques and opportunities for younger researchers.
From chest pain to AI
An ESOR cardiac imaging course opens proceedings on 8 October, combining lectures and rotating workshops on acute chest pain, ischemic heart disease and cardiomyopathies.
Friday’s sessions tackle abdominal oncology, pediatric imaging, and cardiac diagnostics. A session combining AI in radiology with contributions from the Japanese College of Radiology explores implementation in practice and perspectives from Japan, while chest imaging speakers address lung cancer screening and staging.
Saturday moves through interventional neuroradiology, head and neck imaging and emergency radiology. A leadership session examines career choices, mentorship and skills beyond science.
Remembering Miloš Lučić
The ESR announced the Balkan Society of Radiology president’s passing in August. “Professor Lučić will be remembered as a dedicated physician and academic, a passionate educator and a committed advocate for collaboration within the radiological community,” the ESR stated.
Lučić spent more than two decades contributing to European radiology through the ESR, ECR and European Board of Radiology, advancing education, accreditation, and professional development. He also led Serbia’s neuroradiology and magnetic resonance societies.
Remembered for his brilliance and kindness
The Bulgarian Association of Radiology described an engaging teacher and devoted friend; the Balkan Society recalled his kindness and mentorship. His work helped connect radiologists across borders, a commitment that runs through this year’s gathering.
“Beyond his professional brilliance, he will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and commitment to the values of unity and excellence,” wrote Charina Triantopoulou on behalf of the Balkan Society of Radiology.
Dr. Sergey Morozov, a past president of EuSoMII, also shared a personal tribute on LinkedIn, recalling their participation in the ESR Junior Radiologist Forum about 20 years ago: “He was always professional, supportive, inspiring, kindhearted, and smiling,” Morozov wrote, describing Lučić’s death as “a great loss for our community.”
