Dr. Richard B. Gunderman explores the lure behind pediatric radiology in The American Journal of Roentgenology. He writes, “Part of the lure of pediatric radiology arises from the fact that children are especially vulnerable (…). Much can be said about a community or a society by how it cares for its weakest members, its children. Nothing touches the human heart quite like a child in distress. In committing their professional lives to the care of children, pediatric radiologists answer a special call of tender mercy toward our most fragile creatures and play an important role in fostering our future.”
From October 10 to 11, 2024, 191 doctors, including radiologists and pediatricians from Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and seven regions of Kazakhstan, gathered in the city of Almaty to participate in the OMI pediatric radiology symposium, which was led by Dr. Erich Sorantin from the Medical University of Graz. The event took place at the Kazakh Institute of Oncology and Radiology and saw active engagement from the Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University and the Syzganov Research Center for Surgery.
OMI almunus Dr. Zhandos Amankulov and OMI local coordinator Larisa Gorbunova organized the symposium.
What, other than the presence of renowned specialist Dr. Sorantin, could draw so many physicians to the event in Almaty? The thrilling schedule and the networking opportunities of course! The lecture topics covered the difference between children and adults in regard to the impact of imaging, lung ultrasound and chest films in children, radiation exposure of medical imaging, urogenital tract imaging, CT protocols, as well as bone tumors and tumor mimics. There were two fellow case presentation workshops during which participants could present cases from their own practice and one round table discussion session during which Dr. Sorantin and experts from the region discussed novel ideas and opinions with their younger colleagues. Additionally, due to the large number of participants, a workshop titled “How to Write a Scientific Paper” was included in the program for those interested in the topic.
“A key highlight was the round table organized with representatives from the School of Pediatrics at the Kazakh National Medical University, the Scientific Center of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, and the Kazakh Institute of Oncology and Radiology. This session was especially significant, as we explored avenues for collaboration and ways to enhance pediatric radiology,” said Dr. Amankulov. In addition, he highlighted Dr. Sorantin’s tremendous dedication and support: “We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Sorantin for his intensive work with such a large audience over two days. His lectures were extremely insightful and valuable, leaving a lasting impact on the participants.”
The OMI is beyond proud of this very special event and would like to thank Dr. Sorantin and the local organizers for making this symposium such a success. Together, we can shape the future of healthcare!
