PGIMER Chandigarh Hosts National Conference on Paediatric Liver Diseases, Addressing Growing Clinical Challenges
The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh recently inaugurated a significant two-day international conference focused on paediatric liver diseases. This event, titled the "Monothematic Conference on Paediatric Cholestasis and 4th Professor Saroj Mehta Memorial Oration," was organized by the institute's Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology. It brought together leading medical experts from across India and abroad to deliberate on critical issues in paediatric cholestatic liver diseases, highlighting the escalating clinical burden in this specialty.
Department's Extensive Clinical Workload and Patient-Centric Approach
During the inaugural session, Professor Sadhna Lal, Head of the Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology at PGIMER, provided insights into the department's substantial clinical operations. She revealed that the division manages more than 15,000 outpatient visits annually, conducts approximately 3,000 endoscopic procedures each year, and handles over 1,000 admissions annually. These figures underscore the significant demand for specialized care in paediatric liver disorders.
Professor Lal emphasized the department's guiding philosophy, stating that "patient first" remains the core principle. Every clinical and academic effort is centered around the well-being of the child, ensuring comprehensive and compassionate care.
Dignitaries and Scientific Programme Focus
The conference was graced by several esteemed dignitaries, including Professor R K Ratho, Dean (Academics) at PGIMER, who was felicitated as the chief guest. Other notable attendees were Professor Nirmala D from the Institute of Child Health and Hospital for Children in Chennai, and Professor Surinder Rana from the Department of Gastroenterology at PGIMER. Their presence added depth to the discussions on advancing paediatric hepatology.
The scientific programme was meticulously structured to address key areas in paediatric liver diseases. On the first day, the focus was on improving outcomes for biliary atresia, covering topics such as early diagnosis, disease mechanisms, and surgical techniques like Kasai portoenterostomy. The second day expanded the scope to include non-biliary causes of liver disorders, such as genetic and metabolic conditions, providing a holistic view of paediatric hepatology challenges.
Implications and Future Directions
This conference serves as a pivotal platform for sharing knowledge and fostering collaborations among experts in the field. By highlighting the rising clinical burden and the extensive work done by PGIMER's division, it aims to enhance treatment protocols and patient outcomes. The emphasis on a patient-centric approach and advanced scientific discussions underscores the commitment to addressing the complexities of paediatric liver diseases in India and beyond.
