Safe Surgical Practice in Focus. Highlights from the Mid-tern Conference 2024 at SDH Kupwara

Safe Surgical Practice in Focus

Highlights from the Mid-term Conference 2024 at SDH Kupwara

Dr Basharat Khan

In a landmark development for medical education and surgical excellence, the Midterm Conference 2024 commenced today at the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kupwara. This inaugural conference, centered around the theme of "Safe Surgical Practice," signifies a major milestone for the institution and highlights a collaborative effort between SDH Kupwara’s Post-Graduate Department of Surgery and the Jammu & Kashmir Chapter of the Association of Surgeons of India (JAKASI).

The conference has attracted a diverse range of medical professionals from across Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting its pivotal role in advancing surgical practices. Attendees include esteemed professors, veteran surgeons, and medical consultants, along with medical officers from the Jammu & Kashmir Health Services (JKHS) and students from Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) in the region. This broad representation underscores the conference’s significance as a forum for advancing surgical techniques and enhancing patient care.

The opening ceremony set a distinguished tone for the proceedings. Madam Ayushi Sudan, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Kupwara, delivered the keynote address as Chief Guest, underscoring the event’s importance with her inspiring words. Dr. Anjum Afshan, Assistant Director of JK Health Services Kashmir, added to the occasion's gravitas as Guest of Honor. They were joined by Professor Dr. Iqbal Saleem Mir, Head of Surgery at GMC Srinagar and Chairman of JAKASI, as well as Dr. Mohd Ramzan, Chief Medical Officer Kupwara, Dr. Mohd Shafi, Medical Superintendent of SDH Kupwara, and the Block Medical Officer Kupwara. Their presence emphasized the commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in surgical practices.

Dr. Gulzar Ahmad Bhat, the organizing secretary, articulated the conference’s goals with clarity and enthusiasm. 

“Today marks the beginning of an important journey where we come together to enhance our collective expertise in surgical care. We are eager to explore a wide range of topics and interactive sessions designed to broaden our knowledge and skills,” Dr. Bhat remarked, highlighting the conference’s role in advancing surgical techniques and patient safety.

The conference agenda spans two days and includes a comprehensive range of presentations and discussions on cutting-edge medical techniques. Topics include stapled haemorrhoidopexy, which promises to improve the efficiency and outcomes of hemorrhoid surgeries; advanced techniques for inguinal hernia repair (eTEP), aimed at enhancing patient recovery and reducing complications; and innovative approaches to managing thoracic trauma, crucial for improving outcomes in critical care. Each session is designed to provide practical knowledge and insights to refine surgical methods and optimize patient care strategies.

In addition to the main presentations, the conference features a dynamic array of interactive elements. A medical quiz and postgraduate quizzes will test and expand participants' knowledge, fostering a lively exchange of ideas. Poster sessions will showcase the innovative work of postgraduate students, highlighting their creative solutions to current surgical challenges. These interactive components aim to stimulate intellectual engagement and inspire the next generation of medical professionals.

A central theme of the conference is "Safe Surgical Practice," and significant attention has been given to discussing the future needs and upgrades for SDH Kupwara. The conference has facilitated important discussions on acquiring advanced surgical equipment, modernizing operating theatres, and establishing a superspecialty facility. Future plans also include creating a minimal access unit, improving modular theatres, and enhancing human resources. These initiatives reflect a commitment to elevating the quality of care at SDH Kupwara and ensuring the institution remains at the forefront of surgical excellence.

Overall, the Midterm Conference 2024 has been a resounding success, underscoring SDH Kupwara’s dedication to advancing surgical care and medical practices. The institution’s commitment to continuous education and research is evident in its collaborative efforts with various organizations to promote healthcare excellence across the region. The conference has set a high standard for future events and reflects a broader commitment to improving surgical practice and patient outcomes.

Dr Basharat is a writer, columnist and critic and the author of the book Literary Beats۔ He can be reached at Chogalwriter76@gmail.com۔