IOA IFAS COURSE - Rajkot

It is a matter of immense pleasure and privilege to declare that the IOA- IFAS- GOA seminar on Ankle Foot conducted at Rajkot was a huge success. Orthopaedic Society of Rajkot was the local host for logistical purposes of better coordination and organisation of this mega event. After an innovative and interesting promotional campaign to involve and register maximum delegates, we reached a thoroughly fulfilling number of 120+ delegates. That in itself augured the enthusiasm and impending excitement for this unique pan-India endeavour.

It was a novel idea by IFAS to have the same content of cases to be discussed all over India with renowned and experienced specialist faculties. Being a part of a nation-wide teaching voyage was a great endowment in itself. More cardinally, the audience centric discussions and open forum style where opinions were sought from the participants , was a great stimulus for attracting the delegates. Very aptly, there were no podium lectures, only practical actual real- life case based scenarios which everyone could relate to. This in itself created challenges and detailed pros and cons, leading to self- solutions - which was a very satisfying experience for all.

This multifaceted seminar was held at a popular venue- Hotel Imperial Palace, a pleasant and comfortable rendezvous. The sumptuous breakfast was a platform for breaking the ice and getting the ball rolling to interact with the eminent faculties.

The academic program began sharp at 9 am. The distinguished faculties on the dais served as the facilitators to put the cases across the assembly whilst the acclaimed mentors generated discussions and debated the ifs and buts in a logical and scientific manner. It was a well planned, streamlined deliberation and dialogue for each case. There were some wonderful insights and contributions all through for the highly captivated and passionate gathering of participants. The free flow of ideas and opinions was welcomed and appreciated and the esteemed faculties chipped in with their acumen and wisdom time and again.

It was an absolutely rewarding and thoroughly enthralling session of dedicated and devoted in- depth study and analysis of amazing maze of cases. The variety of cases included trauma and non- trauma, fresh and old injuries, ankle as well as mid and hind foot problems - all were covered with due importance. The time provided for each case was also optimal. It was an enriching and illuminative Sunday well spent. It was a great opportunity to encompass and enhance the learning process in Ankle- Foot problems though a creative approach. Small little tips and tricks, techniques and twists to the tales added the charm factor. The frontiers of knowledge and information on this topic were augmented and refined.

We convey our heartfelt gratitude to all the illustrious faculties who adorned this seminar with their brilliant skills and intellect. Their diligence and astuteness combined with the exuberance and effervescence of the audience was a feeling of Zen!

IFAS has set a standard which is going to be a benchmark for other specialties to emulate. It is an occasion to thrive in the celebration of success and strive for a bigger, better, bolder seminar next year. Amen!

Dr. Jagdish Sakhia
Regional coordinator, Rajkot
IFAS