The department of Anatomy, Seth G.S.Medical College and KEM Hospital, in collaboration with the Obstetricians and Gynaecologists organised "The First Asian
Training Course in Gynaecological Laparoscopic Surgery " in unembalmed cadavers, on 22nd and 23rd April 2003 and it was well attended by doctors from all over
India.

Laparoscopy has revolutionalised the specialty of gynaecology over the last two decades. Today each gynaecological operation has its endoscopic counterpart and
there is a need to train gynaecologists in endoscopic surgery. In response to this growing demand, the institution devised an intensive two day course using
"unembalmed female cadavers" to provide hands-on laparoscopic experience. The participants were closely guided and supervised by experienced faculty. This technique enabled the participants to learn pelvic anatomy and laparoscopic skills in a meaningful manner.

Anatomy forms the foundation stone of all clinical branches of medicine. Advancement in technology in various specialties and superspecialties has resulted in a felt-need by the clinicians to revisit anatomy. It is said that the cadaver is "the true teacher". Practicing on the cadavers, surgeons can hone their various skills to perfection.

With the initiation of this programme, it is hoped that endoscopic surgery will be further strengthened in India.

Jean Fernel (1497 - 1558) long ago declared that the adage " Dead men tell no tales" does not hold in the Dissection Hall. Now the fallacy of the adage can be further amplified by the fact that cadavers reveal many a tale courtesy the fibre optic revolution medically enshrined in the Laparoscope that has enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic skills into an amazing repertoire.

Course co-ordinators:
Dr. Lopa Mehta,
Dr. P. S. Bhuiyan,
Dr. Vinita Salvi,
Dr. Makarand Masrani,
Dr. L. Rajgopal