International robotic surgery forum launches in Chicago

Today, a group of robotic surgeons from across the globe launched the Clinical Robotic Surgery Association (CRSA), designed as an international think tank and discussion forum to support the growth of robotic applications within general surgery and its subspecialties. The announcement was made by Pier Cristoforo Giulianotti, MD, Chief of General, Minimally Invasive, and Robotic Surgery at the University of Illinois in Chicago.

With several world-renowned surgeons committed as part of the governing board and founding members, the new organization is destined to become the preferred outlet for facilitating robotic techniques in general surgery and its related specialties.

"As robotic surgery has evolved, my peers and I have sought a need for an organization that focuses solely on general robotic surgery," said Dr. Giulianotti. "It's our vision that CRSA will become an organization where robotic surgeons from all over the world can work together in a cohesive effort to further the development of robotic surgery innovations."

CRSA will also feature a comprehensive Web site and online training center, where surgeons worldwide can access videos of robotic surgical procedures and discuss innovative approaches to different surgical techniques.

"I'm thrilled to take part in the first of its kind organization. As a founding member, we gathered a group of leading surgeons from around the world to better influence the health and lives of others," said Mark R. Dylewski, M.D. Medical Director of General and Robotic Surgery, Baptist Health System of Florida. "CRSA facilitates the opportunity to connect with colleagues, experts, proctors and trainers in favor of multi-institutional programs. We will organize exchanges, stages, case observations, virtual and on-site meetings allowing a constant communication at an international level."

On Oct. 9-10, 2009, CRSA will hold its first international conference at the Swissôtel Chicago to officially launch the organization. An estimated 300 surgeons will be in attendance to share and learn new robotic techniques applied general surgery, including applications for gastrointestinal, colorectal, vascular, transplant, endocrine, oncology and bariatrics. Those surgeons interested in submitting abstracts as well as learning more information about the conference can log on to www.clinicalrobotics.com.

Source: Clinical Robotic Surgery Association