WALS 2025 Inaugural Ceremony: A Landmark Gathering of Global Surgical Excellence скачать в хорошем качестве

WALS 2025 Inaugural Ceremony: A Landmark Gathering of Global Surgical Excellence

February 8, 2025 | The Leela Ambience, Gurugram The 8th World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS 2025) commenced with grandeur on February 8, 2025, at The Leela Ambience, Gurugram, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of minimal access surgery (MAS). Bringing together leading surgeons, gynecologists, and medical innovators from across the globe, this prestigious congress set the stage for transformative discussions on the latest advancements in laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Honoring Distinguished Leaders in Surgery and Healthcare The ceremony began with a warm welcome to eminent dignitaries, led by Shri Rajnath Singh, Honorable Defence Minister of India, the esteemed Chief Guest of the event. His presence underscored the Indian government’s commitment to fostering medical innovation and ensuring that technological advancements in surgery reach every corner of the healthcare sector. Delivering the opening address, Dr. R.K. Mishra, Organizing Chairman of WALS 2025 and a pioneer in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, highlighted the remarkable impact of minimal access techniques in enhancing patient safety, reducing morbidity, and expediting post-operative recovery. His speech set an inspiring tone for an intellectually stimulating congress. Following him, Prof. Dr. Rajesh Shah, President of WALS, spoke about the global influence of WALS, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to research, education, and international collaboration. He reaffirmed WALS’ mission of bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and surgical expertise. Adding further insights, Dr. Abhijat Sheth, President of the National Board of Examinations (NBE), emphasized the importance of standardized training and accreditation in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, ensuring that surgeons worldwide meet the highest standards of skill and patient care. Dr. Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), shared her perspective on the integration of minimal access surgery in military medicine, particularly in battlefield and emergency trauma care. Her address highlighted the vital role of innovation in ensuring rapid and effective surgical interventions for armed forces personnel. Dr. Mandeep Sachdeva, Registrar of the Haryana Medical Council, spoke about the regulatory framework governing surgical advancements, ensuring that innovation aligns with ethical and safety guidelines. Dr. Bhavneet Bhalla, Co-Organizing Chairman, extended heartfelt gratitude to all delegates, speakers, industry partners, and sponsors for their unwavering support in making WALS 2025 a resounding success. A Gathering of Surgical Luminaries Among the distinguished front-row dignitaries were some of the most celebrated names in minimal access surgery, including: • Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Pradeep Chowbey, a trailblazer in laparoscopic surgery, whose contributions have shaped the field of MAS in India and beyond. • Dr. Lalit Shah, President of the Urological Society of India (USI), an eminent figure in urological minimal access surgery. • Dr. K.N. Srivastava, President of the Society of Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Surgeons of India (SELSI), an advocate for advancing laparoscopic education and research. • Dr. Satish Midha, President of the Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endo Surgeons (IAGES), a leader in gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures. • Dr. Ashok Puranik, Director of AIIMS Guwahati, representing the academic and research excellence in medical education and surgical training. • Dr. Arun Prasad, Director of Minimal Access Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, a pioneer in single-incision and robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery. Symbolizing Knowledge, Innovation, and Excellence A ceremonial lamp-lighting marked the official inauguration, symbolizing the radiance of knowledge, wisdom, and the unwavering commitment to surgical excellence. This was followed by a keynote address from Shri Rajnath Singh, who applauded WALS’ efforts in bridging the gap between medical technology and surgical practice. He emphasized that continuous education, research, and global collaboration are crucial to keeping pace with rapid advancements in minimal access surgery. A Congress of Transformative Learning and Collaboration The inaugural ceremony laid the foundation for two days of intensive scientific sessions, live surgical demonstrations, and high-impact discussions. Experts from across the world would deliberate on emerging trends, artificial intelligence in surgery, next-generation robotic platforms, and groundbreaking research. As WALS 2025 unfolded, the commitment to innovation, patient safety, and global knowledge-sharing remained at the heart of every session. This historic gathering of surgical excellence was set to leave a lasting impact on the future of surgery, reinforcing WALS’ mission to push the boundaries of medical science for the benefit of patients worldwide.