Welcome to the 14th Annual Convention of the Philippine Association of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgeons (PALES)!

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We are thrilled to have you join us for this landmark event, where we explore the forefront of medical innovation, exploring the convergence of cutting-edge technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Our convention theme, "Precision, Automation in Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery: Engaging Robotics and AI for MIS Excellence," encapsulates our commitment to enhancing surgical precision, improving patient outcomes, and advancing the field of MIS.

 

PALES has consistently championed novel approaches across various surgical specialties, and this year's convention promises to highlight these advancements. Our focus is on integrating robotics and AI into laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery, showcasing how these technologies are transforming MIS practices and setting new standards for excellence.

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As we gather for this significant event, it's important to reflect on the milestones PALES has achieved over the years. These milestones highlight our journey, our commitment to excellence, and our continuous efforts to push the boundaries of surgical innovation:

 

Establishment of PALES: From its inception in 2006 to the evolution of the Philippine Board of Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery (PBAMIS), PALES has been dedicated to professionalizing the organization and promoting competency-based membership, ensuring leadership in MIS advancements.

 

Position Statement: PALES is the vanguard of minimally invasive surgery in the Philippines. PALES aims to promote the development of safe laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery. PALES is committed to protect patients from bile duct injury and support PALES fellows by advocating for safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy with zero BDI campaign and promote peer support and coaching for PALES fellows to create a culture of safety in surgery.

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Curriculum Development: The creation of the Basic Laparoscopic Curriculum and the Standard Basic Laparoscopy Handbook has set foundational standards for MIS. Currently, with twenty three ( 23 ) accredited basic laparoscopy institutions. In 2014, the advanced MIS curriculum was established and beginning of the advanced MIS training in the country with six training programs.

 

Unified MIS Fellowship Training Programs: A PALES initiative, the development of unified MIS fellowship training programs ensures standardized and high-quality training for the next generation of  advanced MIS surgeons 

 

Fellowship Processes: We have established rigorous fellowship processes for PALES and advanced MIS through PBAMIS, ensuring continuous professional growth.

 

Laparoscopic Outreach Surgical Program: PALES has initiated a laparoscopic outreach surgical program aimed at bringing minimally invasive surgical techniques to underserved communities. This program not only provides much-needed surgical care to remote areas but also raises awareness about the benefits of laparoscopic surgery, promoting health equity and extending the reach of advanced surgical care across the nation.

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 Safety Campaigns: Launching campaigns on Zero Bile Duct Injury (ZBDI) and the safe use of energy sources (ZMISUSE) has been pivotal in enhancing surgical safety. 

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PALES Webinar Series: During the pandemic, PALES continued its surgical education delivery thru a series of  SCOPE and DISSECT webinars  and advanced wet lab workshops thru the  LAPDRAW.

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Refresher Courses: Our commitment to continuous learning is evident through the introduction of basic laparoscopy refresher courses for early fellow members.

 

PALES Midyear Convention: As approved by the board, the midyear conventions shall be conducted at the middle of the official term year of PALES and shall be held anywhere outside Metro Manila.

 

For the year 2023, the First PALES Midyear Conference will be held in January at the Cordillera Convention Center of the Baguio Country Club, Benguet, and with close collaboration with the PALES Northern Luzon Chapter. Together with the support of the other National Surgical Societies, the conference aims to do the following:

 

1. To highlight the basic principles of laparoscopic surgery and strengthen the applications of its discipline to achieve better patient safety outcomes.

2. To further develop the laparoscopic skills through hands-on workshops and live surgical demonstrations.

3. To comprehensively present the different standards and techniques of laparoscopic surgery and its surgical specializations.

4. To provide an avenue for in-depth discussions on the non-technical skills needed in the practice of Laparoscopic Surgery.

 

Intersociety Collaboration: The collaboration between the Philippine Society of General Surgeons (PSGS) and PALES has culminated in a joint annual convention, marking a significant development in intersociety cooperation.

 

ZBDI Time out: The Philippine Association of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgeons Inc. (PALES) remains steadfast in addressing the critical concern of bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomies. Despite advancements in surgical techniques and rigour of surgical training, these injuries continue to impose significant patient morbidity, necessitating our collective action through the ZBDI Time-Out initiative.

 

Today, we stand on the brink of a new era in surgery. The integration of robotics and AI into MIS is not just a possibility but a reality that is reshaping the surgical landscape. This convention will explore where we are now and how these technologies are being leveraged to achieve unparalleled precision and safety in laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery.

 

As we look to the future, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will continue to pursue excellence and safety in laparoscopic surgery. We encourage all delegates to consider the laparoscopic approach in general surgery cases whenever feasible, promoting minimally invasive techniques as the standard of care.

 

Thank you for joining us in this exciting journey towards MIS excellence. Together, let's embrace the innovations that will define the future of surgery and improve patient care in the country,

 

Welcome to the 14th Annual PALES Convention! 

 

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Dr. Raymund Andrew G. Ong

President

Philippine Association of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgeons

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