University of Toronto
University Health Network
Dr. Afnan Alkhotani, MD, SBNS
Stereotactic, Functional & Epilepsy Neurosurgeon
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Neurosurgery is more than just a profession for me—it’s a passion, a commitment, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. As a stereotactic, functional, and epilepsy neurosurgeon, I specialize in helping patients reclaim their lives from conditions like drug-resistant epilepsy, movement disorders, and chronic pain. My approach is driven by precision, technology, and a deep understanding of how surgical interventions can restore function and hope.
At King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC) in Jeddah, I am at the forefront of robotic-assisted neurosurgery and awake craniotomy techniques, ensuring the safest and most effective treatments for my patients. My work integrates artificial intelligence, machine learning, and personalized neuromodulation therapies, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world surgical applications.
Beyond the operating room, my passion extends into scientific research and innovation. I was honored to receive first-place recognition for my research on machine learning-based EEG stratification, a project that highlights how AI can revolutionize epilepsy care. I regularly present at international neurosurgical conferences and contribute to high-impact journals, striving to advance our field and inspire future generations of neurosurgeons.
Being a woman in neurosurgery is more than just a title—it’s a responsibility and a privilege. I am proud to be part of a new wave of female neurosurgeons breaking barriers and reshaping the landscape of this field. Mentorship, advocacy, and representation matter, and I am committed to ensuring that more women step confidently into surgical careers, equipped with the knowledge and support they need to thrive.
Every day, I am driven by one goal: to push the boundaries of what’s possible in functional and epilepsy neurosurgery. Through technology, research, and compassionate patient care, I strive to make a lasting impact—not just in the operating room, but in the future of neurosurgery itself.
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
Friday, April 25, 2025
8:59 AM – 9:09 AM EDT
Friday, April 25, 2025
9:21 AM – 9:30 AM EDT