Kochi: The second edition of the Spine Boot Camp, a comprehensive training programme for spine surgeons on the latest surgical techniques, technological advancements and improved patient safety was inaugurated by Dr. Harish Pillai, CEO, Aster DM Healthcare Hospitals, India at the Bolgatty Palace & Island Resort in Kochi on 31 March 2018. The function was attended by Commander Jelson Kavalakkat (Retd.), COO, Aster Medcity; Dr. Dilip Panikar, Lead Senior Neurosurgeon and Dr. K Venugopal Menon, Senior Consultant Spine Surgeon, Sparsh Hospital, Bangalore.
Speaking about the camp, Dr. Jacob Eapen Mathew, Consultant Spine Surgeon, Aster Medcity said that back and neck problems are increasingly becoming common in people of all ages. The reasons include bad posture, lack of exercise, degeneration of the discs, injuries, tumours, infections, birth defects of the spine and continued neglect of symptoms like pain and numbness.
“Though spine problems are common, many people get a bit apprehensive when we recommended surgery. This fear is largely unfounded as even complex spinal procedures can be performed safely, thanks to high-end technology, implants and advanced surgical techniques like minimally invasive or keyhole spine surgery.The objective of the boot camp was to provide in-depth, hands-on training to spine surgeons on all critical aspects of spine surgery ranging from patient positioning and surgical techniques to optimal use of technology and ensuring complete patient safety”, he said.
The Spine Boot Camp, which was organised by the iSpine International Spine Academy, Chennai in association with Aster Medcity, Kochi, was led by a faculty panel that included some of the most renowned names in the field of spine surgery. The event also saw participation by delegates from countries like Tanzania and Nepal.
Explaining the uniqueness of the Spine Boot Camp, Dr. G Balamurali, Programme Director/ Founder iSpine International Spine Academy said the field of spine care is evolving by the day and it is important that surgeons are trained to use both basic as well as advanced techniques and technology including spinal navigation system, spinal cord stimulation, intra-operative nerve monitoring, operating microscope, C-arm and high-speed drills for greater precision and better outcomes.
A parallel session for nurses and technicians was conducted to provide special, hands-on training on how to use, maintain and trouble shoot high-end surgical equipment.
