ICSTA’s first course launched in partnership with Mindray

The opening ceremony of the 1st course of the International Colorectal Surgery Training Academy was held in May, 2023, during the surgical branch forum focused on colorectal cancer surgery at the International Colorectal Cancer Symposium of Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China. It is initiated by the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine in association with members of Colorectal Cancer Committee and China Anti-Cancer Association, with Mindray as the corporate partner.

Dr Asif Mehraj Dar and Dr Shah Zamir Ahmad, both endorsed by the Indian Association of Colorectal Surgeons, have been selected as the first trainees for an upcoming course. Over the two-month course, the participants will undergo an intensive clinical training program in colorectal surgery at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University. “The academy holds great value for trainees and practicing surgeons alike to develop and grow in respective fields. We’re looking forward to gaining practical experience in laparoscopic and robotic surgery. “

The training academy was inaugurated with opening speeches delivered by Professor Ding Kefeng, vice dean of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, vice-chief committeeman of China Anti-Cancer Association Department of Colorectal Cancer, and Professor Nisar Chowdri, the president of the Indian Society of Colorectal Surgeons.

“Through this international training academy, China’s colorectal cancer surgical diagnosis and treatment techniques can be promoted globally, and contribute to the progress of the world’s colorectal cancer surgery cause.” – Professor Ding Kefeng, Vice dean of The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University; Vice-chief committeeman of China Anti-Cancer Association Department of Colorectal Cancer.

“Compared with short-term visits and training, the academy can provide more comprehensive and integrated opportunities for exchange and learning, and warmly hopes that China and India can have wider and deeper communication and collaboration in the academic research and clinical diagnosis and treatment technology of colorectal cancer in the future.” – Professor Nisar Chowdri, President of the Indian Society of Colorectal Surgeons.

Wang Qiang, Director of Minimally Invasive and Endoscopic Surgery at Mindray congratulated the successful opening of the International Colorectal Surgery Training Academy.

“The academy will promote in-depth technical exchanges between Chinese and foreign colorectal fields, further promoting the progress of the industry and profession.” – Wang Qiang, Director of Minimally Invasive and Endoscopic Surgery at Mindray.

During the forum, leading professionals in the field were gathered together to discuss emerging techniques and trends in colorectal cancer surgery. Professor Nisar Chowdri gave a presentation on low rectal cancer, highlighting the importance of communication with patients during diagnosis and treatment. He suggested that strengthening surgical training could improve postoperative survival quality. Professor Andrew Gilmore, the head of the colorectal unit and also the Chairman of the complex pelvic surgery unit at Liverpool Hospital, gave a talk on surgical techniques for obese patients, including sleeve gastrectomy and precautions during laparoscopic surgery.

Other topics discussed include the latest advancements and challenges in colorectal surgery including the advantages of using robotic surgery, importance of randomized controlled trials, clinical research experience during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the future of robotic surgical instruments and organ preservation.

Professor Andrew Gilmore praised the forum and the establishment of the academy for fostering international communication and collaboration. He emphasized that China’s vast population presents exceptional prospects for surgical training, and exchanging knowledge with surgeons from other countries can enhance their skills, thus improving patient care.

Mindray believes that education and training are key components of our mission to improve healthcare outcomes worldwide. Over the years, Mindray has established more than ten training centers and hundreds of training programs dedicated to minimally invasive surgery, equipping numerous professionals with expertise on colorectal cancer treatment and fostering academic exchanges worldwide. By collaborating with organizations such as the International Colorectal Surgery Training Academy, Mindray strives to empower the medical community’s advancement and enhance healthcare outcomes worldwide.
MB Bureau