The 50th anniversary of the anesthesiology service in Tuzla was commemorated with a ceremonial academy attended by numerous distinguished guests, under the title “Tuzla Days of Anesthesia: From the Department to the Clinic.”
The event highlighted the historical development of anesthesiology at the University Clinical Center Tuzla, showcasing the significant milestones achieved over the past five decades. A special emphasis was placed on the pioneering contributions, the current accomplishments, and the future plans for expanding capacities and advancing staff education.
Prof. Dr. Jasmine Smajić, Head of the Clinic for Anesthesiology and Resuscitation at the University Clinical Center Tuzla, reflected on the roots of modern anesthesia in Tuzla, which trace back to the 1950s. A pivotal figure in this journey was Dr. Maša Formanek, whose arrival marked a turning point in the evolution of the service. Under her leadership, the center introduced modern anesthetic agents, acquired advanced medical equipment, and prioritized continuous staff training, laying a strong foundation for the development of a modern anesthesiology and resuscitation service.
“A major advancement in the organization of the anesthesiology service in Tuzla was made by our esteemed mentor, Prim. Dr. Šekib Hivziefendić, who joined the University Clinical Center Tuzla in 1975. He was instrumental in establishing the initial anesthesia unit, later expanding it into a fully structured department. His work laid the groundwork for the systematic development of the service by introducing new techniques and modern resuscitation methods, and by promoting the continuous education of both anesthesia technicians and physicians.
In 1994, under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Mirsada Prašo, the Department of Anesthesia evolved into the Institute of Anesthesia and Resuscitation. Prof. Dr. Prašo played a key role in the institute’s further growth and development, with a particular focus on modernization, staff professional training, and the expansion of medical services.
With the institutional reorganization of the University Clinical Center Tuzla in 2004, the Institute of Anesthesia and Resuscitation was restructured into a Clinic. This transition marked a new era of professional development, during which numerous educational programs were implemented for both physicians and nurse anesthetists, domestically and abroad. International cooperation and specialized training were conducted in countries such as France and the United States, covering every major area of anesthesiology. This led to the development of subspecialties including neurosurgical, pediatric, maxillofacial, thoracic, and transplant anesthesia. In 2015, Prof. Dr. Semir Imamović assumed leadership of the clinic, continuing the legacy of his predecessors. Under his guidance, the clinic introduced updated anesthesia and intensive care protocols, while also enhancing its focus on scientific research. Among the clinic’s notable achievements are the introduction of percutaneous tracheotomy in 2009, the implementation of ultrasound-guided procedures in intensive care, and significant progress in regional anesthesia, which has notably expanded over the past few years. Today, the clinic is particularly recognized for its role in providing painless childbirth at the Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, as well as for the high number of cesarean deliveries performed under spinal anesthesia,” emphasized Prof. Dr. Jasmina Smajić.
The Assistant Director for Medical Affairs at the University Clinical Center Tuzla, Prof. Dr. Igor Hudić, also addressed the attendees.
“Today, under the title Tuzla Days of Anesthesia: From the Department to the Clinic, we are not only marking an anniversary but we are celebrating the remarkable journey of a service that began as a simple idea, fueled by individual enthusiasm and the vision of courageous pioneers. That journey has led to the development of a modern clinic that now stands proudly alongside the leading centers in the region. This event is also a tribute to all generations of physicians, nurses, technicians, and associates who have laid the foundation of this profession through their knowledge, dedication, and tireless work. Thank you to those who are part of this story today, those who brought us here, and those who will carry this legacy forward,” said Prof. Dr. Hudić.
The Minister of Health of Tuzla Canton, Prim. Dr. Dušanka Bećirović also extended her congratulations:
“Anesthesiologists, resuscitation specialists, and anesthesia technicians form the backbone of healthcare, particularly within all surgical disciplines. Their essential role spans preoperative assessments, intraoperative care, and postoperative recovery. Their contributions are vital and irreplaceable.”
As part of the celebration, a short documentary film was screened, showcasing the 50-year history and evolution of the anesthesiology service in Tuzla. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation and recognition to distinguished individuals and institutions for their significant contributions to the development of the Clinic for Anesthesiology and Resuscitation at the University Clinical Center Tuzla.
