15 October 2026
The 31st International Conference on Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus is organised by the Association de spina-bifida et d’hydrocéphalie du Québec (ASBHQ), with the support of the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IF) and global partners.
This global event brings together healthcare professionals, researchers, advocates, people with lived experience, and partners to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and advance care and inclusion for people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
The conference provides a unique opportunity to:
The 2026 edition also coincides with the 50th anniversary of ASBHQ, which will be marked during the conference with a special networking and celebration moment.
From specialist clinical topics to lived experiences, health equity and international perspectives, the conference programme brings together diverse voices and areas of expertise across the SBH community.
Explore the full programme online.
The conference programme will be offered mainly in English and French, with simultaneous translation available for key sessions.
Our programme brings together international experts and voices with diverse experience across SBH care, research and lived experience.
This year, we are proud to celebrate 50 years of Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Québec (ASBHQ) and its longstanding commitment to the SBH community. For five decades, ASBHQ has helped bring people together, strengthen support and advance the SBH community in Québec and beyond.
This special anniversary makes the 2026 conference an even more meaningful occasion to come together in Montréal.
Join fellow delegates, colleagues and friends at the Conference Cocktail Reception as we celebrate 50 years of ASBHQ and the global SBH community.
After bringing the conference together in different parts of the world, we are delighted to return to Canada and reconnect with our North American community. We hope to welcome colleagues from Canada, the United States and across the wider region, alongside participants from around the world.
And while you’re here, take the opportunity to discover Montréal, from historic neighbourhoods and vibrant cultural life to green spaces, local food and the iconic Mount Royal.
To help you plan your stay, explore:
The main conference hotel is located in close proximity to the venue, where a number of rooms have been reserved for participants, including 18 accessible rooms. When booking, if you require an accessible room, please indicate this in the booking form. Room rates range between 329 and 349 CAD per night (+15% tax).
As an alternative, participants may also consider the Hampton Hotel, where a preferential rate of 270 CAD per night (+15% tax), including breakfast, is available. Please note that accessible rooms are not available at this hotel.
These rates are secured for conference participants until 15 September 2026.
Additional accommodation options will be made available soon on the conference website.
The conference will be conducted primarily in English and French, with simultaneous interpretation available for key sessions.
Participants requiring specific support or assistance are encouraged to contact the organisers.
Organisations are invited to support the conference through a range of partnership opportunities, offering visibility and engagement with an international audience.
Explore partnership options and contact the organising team for more information.
Please visit the conference website to see the full programme details, registration processm abstract submissions, accommodation and all practical and latest information.
For specific enquiries, please contact the organizing team.
Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference!
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