Dr Sachin Goel, Assistant Professor ABVIMS & Dr. RML HOSPITAL, New Delhi
The Asia Pacific Laryngology Association was founded in 2017 by renowned laryngologists hailing from the Asia Pacific countries, under the pioneering guidance of Dr Vasant Oswal, UK, and with Dr Sachin Gandhi, India being the Founder President. Since then it has grown and spread to various countries of the world and has its own annual event which is an academic extravaganza for budding laryngologists.
The 3rd Asia-Pacific Laryngology Association (APLA) Congress took place in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from 2nd to 4th March 2024 with the theme SAVE (Swallowing, Airway and Voice Evaluation) Lives. It was organised by the Laryngology and Voice Association of Bangladesh under the Chairmanship of Dr Kamrul Hassan Tarafder.
The congress welcomed 700 delegates and 40 national and international faculties from across the Asia-Pacific region, comprising leading experts, practitioners, researchers, and students in the field of laryngology.
The congress featured a diverse array of presentations, showcasing cutting-edge research findings and clinical innovations in laryngology. Delegates presented their research on topics such as voice disorders, laryngeal cancer, swallowing disorders and advancements in laryngeal surgery and rehabilitation.
Embracing a multi-disciplinary approach, the congress incorporated quiz competitions designed to test delegates' knowledge across various aspects of laryngology. These engaging competitions fostered friendly competition and facilitated knowledge exchange among participants, enhancing their understanding of key concepts and developments in the field.
The coveted APLA Oration was delivered by Dr Paul Castellanous from the USA on the ‘Past, present and Future of Transoral Surgery’, and it was a delight to learn and understand the dynamics of the latest technology and its application in laryngology.
Delegates had the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops and training sessions, allowing them to refine their skills in diagnostic procedures, endoscopic techniques, voice therapy, and surgical interventions. These interactive sessions provided practical insights and valuable learning experiences, empowering delegates to enhance their clinical practice and patient care.
The congress provided ample opportunities for networking and collaboration, enabling delegates to forge professional connections and partnerships with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. These interactions facilitated the exchange of expertise and collaborative research initiatives, strengthening the collective efforts to advance laryngological practice and research in the region.
The congress concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment among delegates to drive positive change in laryngeal health across the Asia-Pacific region. Armed with new insights, enhanced skills and strengthened connections, participants departed the congress poised to make meaningful contributions to the field of laryngology and to improve patient outcomes in their respective communities.
The torch bearers for the upcoming 4th APLA Congress will be the Egyptian Laryngology Society, with the conference to be held in Egypt in November 2024.
