Gem Hospital inaugurated the 10th edition of its Laparoscopic Surgical Conference, titled GEM LAPAROSURG, on November 20, 2025, bringing together more than 1,500 surgeons from across India and neighbouring countries.
A press meet was held on November 20 in connection with the event, where Dr. C. Palanivelu, Chairman of Gem Hospital, and Dr. Praveen Raj, Joint Managing Director, addressed the media and highlighted the importance of specialised thoracic care in improving patient outcomes.
It is a four-day conference, scheduled from November 19 to 22, features live surgeries, keynote lectures, hands-on training sessions, and panel discussions led by national and international experts.
The event hosts 10 renowned international faculty members representing seven countries, making it one of the most significant minimally invasive surgical gatherings in the region this year.
Experts attending the conference include Dr. Bawantha Gamage, Professor of Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka; Dr. Kirubakaran Malapan, Consultant at Gleneagles Hospital, Penang, Malaysia; Dr. Abdul Gafoor, Vice President of the Malaysia Hernia Society and Treasurer of SELSMA, Malaysia; Dr. Narong Boonyagard, Specialist in Bariatric Surgery, Thailand; and Dr. Abhijath Sheth, Chairperson of the National Medical Commission (NMC).
When asked whether America and Europe continue to dominate medical equipment and technology development, Dr. Palanivelu said that medical innovation in India is progressing rapidly. He added that with continued government support, India’s medical technology innovation ecosystem will become exceptional, positioning the country as a global hub for medical training.
Ph.D Programme for Research and Innovation
Dr. Abhijath Sheth stated that greater emphasis will be placed on clinical research and innovation in India. He also indicated that plans are underway to introduce a Ph.D programme in Research and Innovation for medical students after their postgraduate studies.
Launch of Department of Thoracic Surgery at Gem Cancer Centre
During the conference, Gem Cancer Centre launched its new Department of Thoracic Surgery, a state-of-the-art dedicated unit for the comprehensive treatment of lung cancer and various benign thoracic diseases. The department strengthens the centre’s commitment to offering advanced, multidisciplinary care for patients with chest and lung disorders.
The new department was formally inaugurated by Dr. Abhijath Sheth. Speaking at the launch, the hospital’s leadership emphasised Gem Hospital’s vision of integrating innovation, training and ethical medical practice to advance the field of minimally invasive surgery.
The establishment of the thoracic surgery department marks a significant milestone in expanding comprehensive cancer care services at Gem Cancer Centre.
