APSP 31st International Congress

Dear Esteemed National and International Colleagues and Pediatric Surgical residents,

I am honored to extend a warm welcome to each of you as we prepare to convene at the 31st Annual International Meeting of the Association of Pediatric Surgeons of Pakistan. This year, our collective focus lies firmly on the crucial theme of “Improving Pediatric Surgical Care: A Way Forward with Green Guidelines.”

In the face of global challenges, our commitment to fostering sustainable practices within pediatric surgical care remains unwavering. with an ardent belief in the power of innovation and collaboration, we aim to explore pioneering solutions that not only elevate the standards of care but also prioritize environmental consciousness. As we embark on this transformative journey, let us harness the collective strength of our shared knowledge, experiences, and ideas. together, let us pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future for pediatric surgical care, thus reaffirming our dedication to the well-being of the younger generation.

Furthermore, the adoption of sustainable practices in pediatric surgical care, as highlighted in our theme, holds the promise of significant cost reduction, particularly in the context of a developing nation like Pakistan. By integrating green guidelines into our approach, we can mitigate unnecessary resource consumption, minimize waste, and streamline processes, thereby optimizing expenditure without compromising the quality of care. This strategic shift not only contributes to the preservation of our environment but also empowers us to allocate our limited resources more effectively, ultimately enabling us to extend the reach of our services to a greater number of deserving children across our nation. By embracing this holistic approach, we are not only ensuring a healthier planet for our future generations but also building a stronger, more resilient healthcare system for the children of today.

Certainly, there have been notable instances within the medical literature that showcase the tangible benefits of integrating sustainable practices in healthcare, even in low to middle-income countries. One compelling example is the study published in the International Journal of Surgery Case Reports, which examined the implementation of green initiatives in a pediatric surgical unit in a resource-constrained setting. The findings revealed that the adoption of eco-friendly protocols not only reduced operational costs but also led to a notable decrease in the overall carbon footprint of the healthcare facility.

Moreover, the Lancet Commission’s report on Health and Climate Change has documented various case studies from developing nations, including Pakistan, emphasizing how the incorporation of environmentally conscious practices within healthcare systems can yield substantial cost savings over time, thus enabling these countries to allocate their financial resources more efficiently and serve their communities more effectively.

I am extremely thankful to the organizing committee which has worked hard under the leadership of Professor Amjad Chaudhry to put this wonderful academic activity.

I eagerly anticipate the dynamic exchange of insights and the cultivation of enduring partnerships that will undoubtedly emerge from this pivotal gathering.

Professor Dr Muhammad Arshad,
President, Association of Pediatric Surgeons of Pakistan

Message from Chairman Organizing Committee

Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Participants,

It is with immense pleasure and a sense of profound responsibility that I extend a heartfelt welcome to each one of you as we prepare to embark on a significant and momentous journey with the 31^st International APSP Congress. Our chosen theme, “Improving Paediatric Surgical Care: A Way Forward – Green Guidelines,” encapsulates the very essence of what this congress represents: a unified vision for advancing paediatric surgery and enhancing the well-being of our young patients.

In the ever-evolving landscape of paediatric surgery, it is incumbent upon us to provide clarity, structure, and guidance to our practitioners. Our initiative to craft national guidelines for the index cases of paediatric surgery is a crucial step toward ensuring that our practices remain in harmony with the latest developments while adapting to our national healthcare facilities. These guidelines will not only streamline patient care but also stand as pillars of support in case of any legal exigencies, safeguarding our practitioners and Institutions.

I look forward to the invaluable insights, discussions, and collaborations that will define the 31^st International APSP Congress, and I am eager to learn from each of you as we pave the way forward towards “Green Guidelines.”

With gratitude and anticipation,

Professor Muhammad Amjad Chaudhary
Chairman, Organizing Committee

Association of Paediatric Surgeons of Pakistan (2023-25)