ABU DHABI (WAM)
The 12th UAE International Orthopedic Congress, organised by the Emirates Orthopaedic Division of the Emirates Medical Association, kicked off in Abu Dhabi on Friday, bringing together leading doctors, surgeons and experts from around the world to exchange information and ideas on the latest technologies in the field of orthopedics, with a special focus on the use of robotics and artificial intelligence in complex surgeries.
The opening of the three-day conference was attended by Dr. Rashid Obaid Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Health Workforce Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, in addition to a number of officials and prominent figures in the local and international medical sector.
Organised by Info Plus with the support of the Department of Culture and Tourism, Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dubai Health Authority and Emirates Health Services (EHS), the agenda of the conference will cover a series of lectures and seminars focusing on the latest treatment methods and medical techniques in orthopedics, key topics include the use of robotics in surgeries, the latest applications of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis and treatment of complex diseases, as well as best practices in orthopedics, such as the treatment of complex fractures, joint implants and microsurgery of the spine.
Dr. Ali Al Suwaidi, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon and Chairman of the Conference, said that the conference represents a distinguished platform for the exchange of information, ideas and modern technologies that are constantly developing worldwide, and contributes to strengthening the position of the capital Abu Dhabi as a regional and global medical center, and reflects the keenness and commitment of the UAE to develop medical cadres and create an incubating environment for experts in the field of orthopedics.
He added that orthopedics is witnessing rapid development, which makes the use of robotics and artificial intelligence critical in improving the results of surgeries, and that keeping pace with surgeons in the UAE with this development enhances the quality of health care provided to patients, contributes to reducing risks and accelerating the recovery period, which raises the level of medical services in the country.
The President of the Conference indicated that there is a noticeable increase in the use of robots in surgeries in the country, a development in line with progress in robotics and artificial intelligence, expecting that the percentage of the use of robots in orthopedics will increase by 20% during the next five years, pointing out that one of the most prominent challenges that limit the spread of this technology is the high cost and the need for surgeons to specialised training, and pointed out that the use of robots in surgeries increases accuracy by 10 to 20%, depending on the experience of the surgeon.
For his part, Dr. Zuhair Alfardan, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon and Chairman of the Scientific Committee of the Emirates Medical Association, said that the conference attracts a large group of doctors, experts and specialists from around the world, with the aim of discussing the latest scientific research and reviewing some medical conditions from inside and outside the country, to exchange experiences on the optimal treatment methods for them, as well as the latest technologies in the field of orthopedics and plastic surgery, which contributes to the development of doctors' education and the enhancement of medical services provided to patients.
He revealed a plan to establish a new clinical research division of the Emirates Medical Association, soon, and the new division aims to enhance coordination between 49 specialised divisions in the association, to encourage scientific research and integrate various medical specialties in the field of research, stressing that the new division will contribute significantly to improving health services and strengthening the UAE's position as a leading centre in the field of medical research in the world.
On the sidelines of the conference, an exhibition will be held that includes 15 international companies specialised in the field of medical equipment and devices, showcasing the latest innovations and technologies used in orthopedics, and giving participants the opportunity to learn about the latest medical products and solutions that contribute to improving the results of surgeries and the quality of health care provided to patients.