# Milena Auretta Rosso first female Italian neurosurgeon

## TL;DR

This paper highlights the career and challenges of Milena Auretta Rosso, Italy's first female neurosurgeon, and her transition to iridology after an injury.

## Contribution

The paper contributes a historical account of a pioneering woman in neurosurgery and her subsequent career in iridology.

## Key findings

- Milena Auretta Rosso became Italy's first female neurosurgeon in 1972.
- She faced hostility and misogyny during her academic and professional journey.
- An injury in 1974 led her to shift her career to iridology and writing.

## Abstract

Although the representation of women in the field of surgery is on the rise, significant challenges remain in achieving gender equality, particularly in neurosurgery, a domain that has historically been dominated by men until relatively recently. The advancements made in this area owe much to trailblazing women like Milena Auretta Rosso, who holds the distinction of being Italy’s first female neurosurgeon. It is crucial to acknowledge their contributions, careers, and the adversities they faced in pursuit of their ambitions. Born in 1943 in Genoa, Italy, Rosso graduated with honors in General Medicine from Sapienza University in Rome in 1969. After completing her medical education at the same institution in 1972, she became the first female neurosurgeon in Italy. Throughout her academic journey, she encountered numerous instances of hostility and misogyny. In 1974, an accident resulted in a broken finger on her right hand, which ultimately ended her neurosurgical career. This pivotal moment led her to redirect her professional path while remaining in the medical field, as she pursued studies in iridology. Currently, she practices in Rome, where she also engages in various conferences and has authored a book.