Dr. Ramesh, Esophagogastric cancer surgeon at GEM Hospital, has bagged the Best Video Award for laparoscopic and robotic esophagectomy for cancer during the first Indian edition of the International Society for Diseases of the Esophagus (ISDE) conference held recently in Hyderabad.
The award-winning video showcased an advanced minimally invasive thoracoscopic esophagectomy technique, using cutting-edge technology incorporating indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence to accurately define the spread of cancer.
The laparoscopic minimally invasive esophagectomy in the prone position, invented 25 years ago by Dr. Palanivelu, Chairman of GEM Hospital, had a major global impact and has received several international awards. The technique offers less pain, faster recovery, and significantly reduced complications, according to the press release from the hospital.
The press release added that in conventional open surgery, mortality due to lung infection can exceed 10%, whereas with laparoscopic and robotic esophagectomy, mortality has been reduced to nearly zero in experienced centres. Also, the minimally invasive robotic esophagectomy has received international recognition and awards.
“Dr. Palanivelu was also honoured with the Eminent International Membership Award by the Japanese Association of Thoracic Surgeons.
The esophageal cancer is the fifth most common cancer, and its incidence is increasing due to obesity, lifestyle changes, and smoking. GEM Hospital has a dedicated institute for esophageal and stomach cancers.
The hospital has completed more than 1,500 esophageal cancer treatments using laparoscopic and robotic surgery, and is considered a centre of excellence in surgical oncology, particularly in minimally invasive cancer surgery,” the press release said.
