ECTAS 2012 is the Annual Conference of the Egyptian Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia Society, which will take place in Cairo, Egypt from 9 - 11 February 2012. Cairo, the capital of Egypt, has always been a cultural center in the Middle East, but this year the great city of the Nile is filled with dynamic energy and a thirst to change for the better. The post-revolutionary Egypt has left everyone doing his utmost effort to show Egypt at its best. And that’s what we are willing to do in the next Conference. The ECTAS Annual Conference is an unparalleled event in that it is the only conference of its kind in the region. It’s the only specialized conference in the field of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia. The Conference programme will focus on every field that is considered of interest to personnel involved in the perioperative care of patients undergoing cardiothoracic and vascular procedures, including anesthesia, intensive care, echocardiography, and perfusion. In addition, cardiothoracic surgeons and cardiologists are most welcome to attend, as they are very likely to find topics that will match their interest. In addition to the main Conference sessions, several workshops and CME courses will take place, including the annual TEE course and accreditation exam, which is organized in collaboration with the European Association of Cardiothoracic Anesthesiologists (EACTA). Also, a TEE Simulation workshop, a Perfusion course, a Bronchial Anatomy and Lung Isolation workshop will take place, among others. The Conference venue is the National Training Institute (NTI) - Ministry of Health, a specialized training center that comprises multiple halls, an exhibition area, and the latest in audiovisual technology. The NTI is situated in the middle of Cairo, a few minutes from the Conference Hotels, and within easy reach from Cairo International Airport, and Cairo Railway Station. Besides formal scientific sessions, the Conference is also a great way to meet experts, get acquainted with colleagues, raise discussions and debates on medical dilemmas, and best of all, visit the great City of Cairo. The Annual ECTAS Conference is aspiring to be the central event of the region, and delegates from the Middle East, Africa, the Arab, as well as the whole world are most welcome to attend. So, mark your calendars and don’t miss ECTAS 2012.