Main Scientific Programme

The theme of this congress is "Exploring the Boundaries in Colorectal Surgery: The Past, The Present & The Future". Moving in line with the theme, the goal of the congress is to provide a platform for an international panel of experts to participate in active reflection, engaging debates and lively discussions on both explored and envisaged boundaries and techniques relevant to the field of colorectal surgery.

Advanced surgical techniques which involve state-of-the-art technology and clinical precision will be demonstrated via a structured programme that includes both lectures and workshops.

Workshop

Several comprehensive Workshop Programmes have been formulated for this congress.

• Pelvic Floor Disorders Workshop
• The Robotic-assisted Surgery and Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery Workshop
• Stapled Haemorrhoidectomy Workshop
• The Endoscopic & Laparoscopic Surgery Simulation Workshop
• Animal Lab Workshop

Genetics Symposium

"Personalised Medicine: Genomics and Beyond"

A major opportunity to improve treatment of patients arises from the fact that treatment response can be influenced by individual differences in tissue regulation and drug effectiveness. Differences in treatment response may arise from genetics and proteomic differences in drug transporters, receptors and pathways for drug action. The aims of the symposium are to consider ways in which recent developments in genomics and proteomics can apply to personalise medical profiling in clinical practice; to consider issues important in implementing effective care which would influence the clinical outcomes of patients with hereditary colorectal cancers; and instituting necessary steps for early detection and curative treatment.

Nursing Symposium

"Nurses at the Forefront: Collaborating Beyond Boundaries"

Nurses have always been at the forefront and are essential team members involved in patient care. As technology continues to develop and evolve, the delivery of nursing care needs to move in congruent with these developments. Future challenges and strategic initiatives in promoting the quality of care in the current and future healthcare settings will be discussed by a panel of local and international experts. Topics in this year's congress will centre on the following themes:

• Developing creative approaches to nursing practice that enhances quality patient care in a cost-effective manner.
• Model a service that aims to integrate a comprehensive and structured care.