KARACHI: The first-ever 2-day international robotic surgery symposium in the country organized by Sindh Institute of Urology & Transplantation (SIUT) began in Karachi, which also marked the milestone of over 1200 successful robotic procedures.
The robotic unit was commissioned at SIUT last year and inaugurated by Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah. The leading robotic surgeons from the USA, UK, and Pakistani professionals attend the symposium. Taking part in a session of the symposium Director SIUT Prof Adib Rizvisaid robotic surgery is another step forward for dedicated professionals of the SIUT team who not only successfully performed these state-of-the-art surgical procedures but are also now enthusiastic about training fellow professionals across the country and region.
He reiterated the SIUT resolve to keep abreast with the latest technology and ensure its availability to those who need it. He said this facility is part of SIUT's philosophy to provide health coverage free of cost and without discrimination.
The opening session was followed by a panel of international and national experts who elaborated on the evolution of robotic surgery and techniques in their respective countries. Prof Babar Hasan of SIUT presented an insight into the diagnosis and prognostication of the Pakistani population through meaningful collaboration with international partners. He also highlighted how SIUT is facilitating this transformation in healthcare practice.
Taking part in a panel discussion, Dr Khursheed Guru of the USA said that the next breed of surgeons could adopt robotic surgery without following the older technology, and that is how they can achieve better outcomes in prostatic and lower urinary tract surgeries. Dr Mark Slack, also from the UK, complimented SIUT on pioneering this new field of medical technology. Dr Rehan Mohsin, Dr Arsalan Khan, Dr Riaz Leghari, Dr Shadab Khan and Junaid, all from SIUT, also spoke.
SIUT maintains simulation labs imparting training in new surgical techniques not only within the institutions but also across Pakistan.