Internationally acclaimed South African laparoscopic surgeon, Professor Heine van der Walt, recently showcased his expertise on a global stage. Selected to demonstrate two advanced minimally invasive procedures, Van der Walt represented Africa at the prestigious Global Digestive System Congress in Rome, Italy.
The Congress, now in its 35th year, is one of the world’s largest gatherings for medical professionals, hosting over 3,000 attendees at the Auditorium del Massimo and thousands more virtually. The event featured 150 live-streamed surgical demonstrations from five continents, with Van der Walt standing out as Africa’s sole representative.
Sharing Expertise with the World
Professor Van der Walt performed two live laparoscopic revisional anti-reflux surgeries from Netcare Unitas Hospital, streaming the procedures to Congress attendees. These complex surgeries, aimed at correcting previous failed operations, demand exceptional skill and adaptability.
“Every opportunity to share knowledge that equips surgeons for such intricate cases is invaluable. The oesophagus is one of the body’s most sensitive organs, and mastering these techniques can significantly impact patient outcomes,” Van der Walt said.
Netcare Unitas Hospital manager Pieter Louw commended Van der Walt’s dedication. “Prof Van der Walt is renowned for sharing his knowledge globally, extending his expertise far beyond the patients he directly treats,” he said.
Advancements in Telemedicine
Professor Van der Walt highlighted how technological advancements have transformed global medical collaboration. “In the past, I had to travel to Europe for such cases. Now, with cutting-edge technology like 5G and fibre connections, we can stream live surgeries in exceptional clarity from here in South Africa,” he explained.
The live demonstrations incorporated a two-way communication setup, enabling real-time interaction with Congress participants. “It’s rewarding to be part of a global exchange that enhances patient care worldwide,” Van der Walt added.
Commitment to Excellence
Van der Walt’s participation in the Congress underscores his position as a leader in laparoscopic surgery. His innovative approaches and dedication to education are shaping the next generation of surgeons, both locally and internationally.
“His work keeps South Africa at the forefront of this specialised field,” Louw said. “We are immensely proud of his contributions to global medical advancements.”
