SRM Medical College Hosts Pediatric Surgery Week: A Celebration of Knowledge, Creativity, and Child-Centred Care

The Department of Pediatric Surgery, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur, organised a vibrant and impactful Pediatric Surgery Week, commemorating the evolving role of pediatric surgeons in modern healthcare. The week-long event brought together undergraduate students, postgraduate trainees, faculty, and staff to raise awareness, enhance surgical education, and highlight the unique needs of children requiring surgical care.

Dignitaries Presence:
~ Dr. R. Venkatraman, Medical Superintendent, SRMMCHRC
~ Dr. K. Mohan Kumar, Professor, Department of Paediatric Surgery, SRMMCHRC
~ Dr. Subash, HOD & Prof., Department of Paediatrics, SRMMCHRC
~ Dr. V. P. Chandrasekaran, Chief Operating Officer, SRM Global Hospitals
~ Dr. C. Sankkara Barathi, Professor of Paediatric Surgery, Madras Medical College
~ Dr. P. Priyatharshini, Head & Sr. Consultant Paediatric Critical Care, SRM Global Hospitals

Academic Highlights: Pediatric Surgery Medal Examination
The celebrations began with the Pediatric Surgery Medal Examination for postgraduate students in General Surgery. Designed to test both theoretical knowledge and clinical acumen, the exam covered vital topics such as neonatal surgical emergencies, congenital anomalies, pediatric urological disorders, and core surgical principles in infants and children. Winners were honoured with medals and certificates, encouraging young doctors to consider pediatric surgery as a future specialisation.

Creative Competitions: Blending Medicine with Art and Awareness

A series of creative events followed, aimed at spreading awareness about pediatric surgical conditions in engaging, visual formats:
● Poster Competition: Posters focused on early diagnosis, surgical safety, and postoperative care in children were displayed along hospital corridors, drawing attention from patients and visitors alike.
● Rangoli Competition: Participants transformed the hospital floors into vibrant depictions of recovery and resilience, using traditional art to convey important health messages.
● Slogan Writing: Short, impactful slogans like “Small Patients, Big Needs” and “Timely Surgery, Lifelong Smiles” captured the essence of child-focused surgical care.
● Fireless Cooking Contest: Emphasising child nutrition, teams presented innovative, fire-free recipes suitable for children recovering from surgery, focusing on taste, digestibility, and visual appeal.

Debate: “Can Adult General Surgeons Operate on Children?”

One of the most thought-provoking sessions of the week was the debate centred on the question: “Can adult general surgeons operate on the pediatric age group?”

Participants passionately discussed both sides. The affirmative team advocated that, particularly in resource-limited settings, general surgeons with sufficient training can handle routine pediatric surgeries. The opposing team emphasised the distinct anatomical and physiological needs of children, advocating for specialised care by pediatric surgeons. Judges praised the evidence-based, ethical, and clinically grounded arguments, highlighting the need for stronger referral systems and increased pediatric surgical training, especially in rural areas.

Expert Talks: Insights from Leading Practitioners

The academic fervour of the week was elevated by two engaging expert lectures:
● Dr. Sankkara Bharati, Professor of Pediatric Surgery, Institute of Child Health (ICH), Egmore, Chennai, delivered an in-depth session titled “Common Pediatric Surgical Problems and the Role of Pediatric Surgeons.”

He discussed real-life clinical cases of inguinal hernia, hydrocele, undescended testis, pyloric stenosis, hypospadias, and anorectal malformations, emphasising the critical role pediatric surgeons play in ensuring safe, specialised care tailored for children.
“Pediatric surgery is not just a technical discipline—it is a philosophy of care centred around our youngest patients,” Dr. Bharati noted.

● Dr. Priyatharshini, Head and Senior Consultant in Pediatric Critical Care, SRM Global Hospitals, delivered a well-received talk on “UTI in Children.”

She explored the causes, implications, and the role of surgeons in identifying underlying anatomical abnormalities. An interactive Q&A session followed, with enthusiastic participation from students and doctors.

Closing Ceremony: Recognising Talent and Teamwork

The week culminated in a festive prize distribution ceremony, where winners and participants from all events were recognised with trophies, medals, and certificates. Dr. Sankkara Bharati, along with senior faculty, congratulated the students and encouraged them to contribute to the future of pediatric healthcare.

In his closing remarks, the Head of the Department of Pediatric Surgery reflected on the department’s rebirth in 2023, lauding the dedication and teamwork that made the event a success. He extended heartfelt thanks to the organising committee, student volunteers, clinical faculty, and all participants for their spirited involvement and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to academic excellence, skill-building, and child-focused surgical care.