Medical specialists have learnt from an international expert visiting Port Macquarie.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Professor Takashi Toyonaga, from Kobe University Hospital in Japan, demonstrated advanced interventional endoscopy at Port Macquarie Private Hospital, training a group of Australian gastroenterologists.
Endosopic resection of tissue in the gastrointestinal tract avoids the need for conventional surgery in suitable cases.
The procedure has revolutionised the treatment of early gastrointestinal tract cancers internationally.
The life-changing procedure reduces patients' time in hospital, while speeding up recovery and resulting in a better quality of life as compared to conventional surgery.
Dr Stuart Kostalas said it was such a privilege to have Professor Toyonaga in Port Macquarie to share his skills with a group of gastroenterologists.
"Our patients are benefiting from the skills we learn," he said.
"It has been life-changing for my patients."
This is Professor Toyonaga's third visit to Port Macquarie at the invitation of Dr Kostalas.
Dr Kostalas continues to hone his skills in interventional endoscopy with assistance from Professor Toyonga.
The training opportunity this year was extended to other gastroenterologists.
Brisbane-based gastroenterologist Dr George Ermerak said specialists would normally have to travel overseas to get this sort of experience.
"We have an international expert, like Professor Toyonaga, and a local expert, like Dr Kostalas, working together and helping to spread this technique," he said.
"It is such a great opportunity.
"It's a really big win for Port Macquarie to be able to host someone of Professor Toyonaga's calibre."
Professor Toyonaga demonstrated the procedure at Port Macquarie Private Hospital.
Port Macquarie Private Hospital chief executive officer Connie Porter said: "Locally we are pleased to support the visit of Professor Toyonaga, it provides an important opportunity for learning for the medical specialists and our team more broadly.
"Visits like Professor Toyonaga's can only enhance the services we provide for our local community."
What else is making news, sport?
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.