Surgical research and education hub celebrates its 10th anniversary.
 

RPA’s Institute of Academic Surgery is celebrating a significant milestone – 10 years since its inception as the primary hub for surgical research and education at the hospital.

“The IAS aims to be at the forefront of leading surgical practice and patient care both nationally and internationally,” Dr Sophie Hogan, the Director of the IAS, said.

The IAS was established in 2014 by Co-Chairs Professor Michael Solomon and Professor Paul Bannon, and Dr Kate McBride the Institute's inaugural Director.

The IAS works with surgeons, nursing, allied health and other surgically focused staff at RPA, Sydney University and other key partners, to conduct pioneering multidisciplinary research, education and services.

To mark the 10-year anniversary, Sydney Local Health District’s Chief Executive Deb Willcox joined a symposium hosted by the IAS to reflect on the institute’s history, celebrate its achievements and explore the future in the field.

“This gem of an idea 10 years ago has transformed surgery and surgical research, not only for our surgical colleagues but for the entire multidisciplinary team that cares for our patients. It’s been an incredible success story,” she said.

The IAS aims to strengthen the capacity of surgical departments to undertake research by integrating it into clinical practice. They have demonstrated this in the Advanced GI Surgical Program, the Robotic Assisted Surgery Program, the Surgical Innovation Program plus the Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma Program.

Consultants and senior staff affiliated with the IAS support up-and-coming surgeons and clinicians, assisting them through their academic and clinical careers. 

Collectively they have published leading research papers addressing innovative surgical ideas, pre and postoperative best care and practice and effective processes to establish and maintain surgical programs.