PGI's Dr Prema Menon Honored with IAPS Oration Award 2025 for Pediatric Surgery Contributions
Dr Prema Menon, a professor in the Department of Pediatric Surgery at PGIMER in Chandigarh, has received the prestigious IAPS Oration Award for 2025. The award recognizes her groundbreaking research, exceptional mentorship, and dedicated service to the field of pediatric surgery.
Award Ceremony at Diamond Jubilee Conference
The Indian Association of Pediatric Surgeons (IAPSCON) presented the award during its 51st Annual Conference. This event celebrated the association's 60th anniversary, known as its diamond jubilee. The conference took place recently in Odisha, marking a significant milestone for the organization.
Focus on Pelvi-Ureteric Junction Obstruction
Dr Menon delivered an oration titled "Pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction: Less common aspects and the role of imaging." This condition is a common pediatric urological issue that blocks urine flow from the kidneys. Doctors typically diagnose it using ultrasonography and functional imaging.
Most cases involve intrinsic obstructions that surgeons can correct with excellent outcomes. However, the problem sometimes stems from extrinsic obstruction caused by aberrant renal vessels.
Groundbreaking Imaging Research
Based on her extensive experience at PGIMER, Dr Menon described specific imaging features for the first time in medical literature. These features help doctors preoperatively diagnose pelvic ureteric junction obstruction linked to aberrant vessels.
This advancement prevents potential injury to these vessels during surgery. It also avoids renal tissue loss from ischemia. Her oration also highlighted imaging features and management strategies for rare associations like malrotation of the kidney and extrarenal calyces with pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction.
Mentorship and Academic Achievements
Since joining PGIMER in 2002, Dr Menon has guided the careers of more than 100 M.Ch. trainees in Pediatric Surgery. Her clinical and research expertise covers a broad range of pediatric surgical conditions.
She has authored over 205 publications, demonstrating her scholarly impact. Additionally, Dr Menon holds the title of meritorious fellow from the Association of Minimal Access Surgeons of India (FMAS). She maintains a strong interest in pediatric laparoscopic and robotic surgery techniques.
