Scholarship Reports IFSO Melbourne 2024

• Suhaib Ahmad, UK

  As a recipient of the IFSO scholarship for the 2024 World Congress, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to attend and participate in this highly educational and impactful event. The IFSO World Congress provided an outstanding platform to engage with experts in bariatric and metabolic surgery from across the globe. The presentations, workshops, and interactive sessions were highly informative and covered a wide range of topics, including the latest advancements in surgical techniques, postoperative management, and the integration of emerging technologies. The inclusion of experts not only from bariatric and metabolic surgery but also from allied fields such as endocrinology and nutrition, made this Congress truly unique. What made this conference particularly significant was the focus on the emerging role of pharmaceutical interventions in metabolic and bariatric care. It was refreshing to witness an open, collaborative dialogue between surgeons and pharmaceutical experts, highlighting how medical and surgical approaches can complement rather than oppose each other. I sincerely thank IFSO for this exceptional opportunity and their continued support for professional development in the field.

  
  
   
• Chandra Massetti, Italy

  Dear IFSO,

  I would like to thank the staff and the scientific committee for giving me the opportunity to present the e-Poster called “Bariatric Surgery and Craving Eating Behaviours: a retrospective pilot study” during XXVII IFSO World Congress in 2024 in Melbourne.

  IFSO gave me the opportunity to present it and also won the Integrated Health Scholarship of 2500 dollars which allowed me to cover travel and accommodation expenses during the days of the Congress.

  Participating in this Congress was a unique experience for me as it allowed me to interact with both industry experts and young colleagues with a desire to learn. It also provided the opportunity to make known my work as a psychologist within the Department of General and Specialist Surgery and the topics that are most addressed in scientific research.

  I hope to be able to continue to grow professionally in this sector by participating in events like this and comparing myself every time with knowledgeable and motivated colleagues.

  I thank my professor Dr. Alessandro M. Paganini and IFSO.

  
  
   
• Deeba Siddiqui, India

  My participation in IFSO 2024 was a transformative experience that not only allowed me to share my research but also learn from some of the leading experts in the field. I am grateful to IFSO for having been awarded one of the 2024 integrated health scholarships and to recognize my aspirations to enhance the evidence base underlying excellent nutrition support for patients undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery.

  Winning the scholarship has motivated me to continue my work and pursue further opportunities to contribute to the ongoing advancements in obesity treatment and metabolic health.

  I am grateful for the support provided by IFSO and look forward to future collaborations and contributions to this important field which is my passion.

  The scholarship will support my ongoing research and professional development, allowing me to continue contributing to advancements in bariatric surgery and metabolic health. It also provides me with the opportunity to collaborate with other experts and continue my education in a global context.

  In addition to presenting, I attended multiple seminars and workshops focused on bariatric surgery, which further enriched my understanding and skills related to metabolic bariatric surgery and strategy to provide the excellent nutrition support to reduce complication and to ensure long term positive benefits of the surgery.

  The IFSO 2024 Conference brought together leading experts, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of obesity surgery and metabolic health. The event featured a series of workshops, presentations, and discussions on cutting-edge research, surgical techniques, and the latest trends in the treatment of obesity and metabolic diseases. Participants had the opportunity to network with professionals from around the world, exchange ideas, and gain insights into the future of this critical medical field. I am again thankful to IFSO 2024 for providing me this wonderful opportunity.

  
  
   
• Mahsa Hatami, Iran

  I am writing to provide a report on my participation in the 27th International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) World Congress, held in Melbourne, Australia, in 2024. This prestigious event brought together leading experts in the field of bariatric surgery from around the world to share their knowledge, research, and experiences.

  As a recipient of the IFSO Scholarship, I had the incredible opportunity to attend this congress and gain invaluable insights into the latest advancements in surgical nutrition management for post-bariatric surgery patients.

  The scholarship played a crucial role in enhancing my understanding of the latest research and best practices in the field. By attending the IFSO 2024 Melbourne congress, I was able to network with leading experts, exchange ideas with fellow professionals, and gain new perspectives on managing the nutritional needs of post-bariatric surgery patients. This experience has significantly contributed to my professional growth and will undoubtedly benefit my patients in the future.

  In summary, the IFSO 2024 IH Scholarship has been a transformative experience for my professional development. It has equipped me with advanced knowledge and skills in bariatric nutrition management, which I am eager to apply in my practice to improve patient outcomes. I am deeply grateful for the support provided by the IFSO and look forward to participating in the next IFSO World Congress to gain further remarkable experiences.

  Thank you for this valuable opportunity.

  
  
   
• Olivia Edwards, New Zealand

  IFSO 2024 world congress in Melbourne was an exciting experience, and I am grateful to have been able to attend. With thought provoking sessions, networking among colleagues from across the globe, and social events that future congresses may struggle to rival, the whole event has left me feeling energised to stretch myself as a bariatric dietitian.

  It is difficult to pinpoint a solo highlight from IFSO this year. However, the Integrated Health Pre-Congress Course was brimming with quality presentations and take home learnings to share with colleagues.

  One of the overarching themes from this day was exploring outcome measures beyond weight loss after surgery, looking at the preservation of fat free mass and muscle function, and how these might be measured in a clinical setting. I think this is an empowering message for clinicians and patients – how do we strive to maintain strength and better quality of life during weight loss, rather than just looking at the scale? This has sparked conversations in our team around how we can be more proactive in this area and look for local research opportunities, particularly among our patients with BMI >60kg/m2.

  I always enjoy hearing psychologists present in the Integrated Health sessions, and the presentations at IFSO 2024 did not disappoint. I found the practical sessions on loss-of-control eating, shame, and stigma particularly valuable. The presenters transported us into the patients’ seat to understand the power of the vocabulary and questions we use. I feel more confident to ask the “hard stuff” and the learnings have had an immediate impact on my interactions with patients.

  Presenting my abstract on Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency following bariatric surgery was another highlight. I enjoyed the supportive audience, the conversations that followed, and the opportunity to “cut my teeth” presenting on an international stage.

  Thank you IFSO for the opportunity to attend the 2024 congress. Without the Integrated Health Scholarship, this may not have been possible. Being my first experience at IFSO, it has left me eager to see what future congresses hold.

  
  
   
• Mariia Miasnikova, Russia

  It is with great enthusiasm that I report my experience at the XXVII World Congress of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO), held in Melbourne, Australia, from September 3th to 6th, 2024. As a recipient of the prestigious IFSO IH scholarship, I had the honor of participating in this significant event, which brought together leading experts and professionals from around the globe to integrate their knowledge about emerging therapies in the field of obesity. The scholarship not only provided financial support but also granted me an exceptional opportunity to present my research, dedicated to weight loss, changes in body composition, and resolutions of obesity related comorbidities one year after single anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass and sleeve gastrectomy.

  The IFSO2024 Congress was meticulously organized to cover a comprehensive range of topics within the field of obesity, benching research and clinical care and shifting treatment goals from simple weight loss to overall patients’ health. The Integrated Health pre-course was extremely useful for me. The knowledge I gained there came in handy in creating a certification cycle for integrated health doctors in Russia, in which I took part as a lecturer in October 2024.  As a gastroenterologist I received answers to my questions about the management of patients with MASLD after bariatric surgery and ways to prevent MAFLD progression into liver cirrhosis after bariatric surgery. Such issues of primary importance as the coexistence of drug and surgical therapy for obesity were discussed, and I learned a lot about the causes and correction of insufficient weight loss and recurrent weight gain.

     I am deeply grateful for the scholarship that made this experience possible and for the warm collegiality extended by the IFSO community. I look forward to applying the knowledge and insights gained from this congress to my ongoing research and clinical practice, and I am excited about the future collaborations and advancements in the field of obesity.

  
  
   
• Khoula Al Harrasi, Oman

  I wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank the IFSO committee for awarding me the grant to attend IFSO 2024 in Melbourne. I am truly grateful for this generous support, which made it possible for me to participate in such a prestigious conference.

  Attending IFSO 2024 has been an incredibly enriching experience for me. The opportunity to engage with leading experts, share knowledge with peers, and stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field has been invaluable. Not only did I gain new insights into the research and techniques, but I also had the chance to network with professionals from around the world, which will undoubtedly have a positive impact on my career.

  The knowledge and inspiration I have gained from this event will significantly enhance my practice and contribute to my ongoing professional development. I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity and look forward to applying what I've learned to my work and sharing these insights with my colleagues.

  Once again, thank you for your support. It was an honor to be part of such an incredible event, and I am truly grateful for the grant that made my participation possible.

  
  
   
• Naureen Mansuri, India

  I had the incredible honor of being selected as a recipient of the full scholarship to attend the International Federation for Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) Conference held in Melbourne, 2024. As a bariatric psychologist, this prestigious event provided a unique platform to deepen my understanding of the multidisciplinary approaches in bariatric surgery and to exchange knowledge with leading professionals in the field.

  The scholarship allowed me to present my research on the impact of eating pathology on weight loss outcomes, which was selected as one of the best papers at the conference. This recognition not only validated my work but also gave me the opportunity to engage with an international audience, receiving valuable feedback and insights that will shape my future research.

  The conference sessions were a treasure trove of knowledge, featuring the latest advancements in surgical techniques, patient care, and psychological support for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. By attending, I enhance my expertise in managing the psychological aspects of bariatric patients, which will directly benefit my clinical practice and contribute to better patient outcomes.

  Moreover, this experience expanded my professional network, connecting me with experts and peers who are equally passionate about improving the lives of individuals dealing with obesity. The discussions and collaborations initiated during the conference have already sparked ideas for future projects and interdisciplinary studies.

  I am deeply grateful for the scholarship, which made this transformative experience possible. It has been a cornerstone in my professional journey, reinforcing my commitment to advancing knowledge and improving care in bariatric psychology. This opportunity has inspired me to aim higher and contribute more meaningfully to the field of bariatric surgery and metabolic disorders.

  Acknowledgment

  I extend my heartfelt thanks to the IFSO Committee and my mentor, Dr. Manish Khaitan, for their support and encouragement, which played a pivotal role in this achievement.

  
  
   
• Athanasios Pantelis, Greece

  I was fortunate to attend the recent IFSO World Congress in Melbourne, thanks to the scholarship grant that I was awarded by IFSO, which made this invaluable experience possible. The congress provided me with the opportunity to connect with old friends and esteemed experts in bariatric surgery, which significantly enhanced both my knowledge and my professional network.

  Throughout the event, I participated in sessions that expanded my understanding of the latest developments and best practices in bariatric surgery. The presentations and discussions were rich in insights, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of emerging techniques and innovations in the field.  Among the highlights were the following:

  • The IFSO Chapters Championship (Shark Tank) and Battle of the Experts sessions, which were both highly engaging and educational, bringing real-life cases to the forefront in an interactive and lively way.
  • The Young IFSO session, where I had the chance to connect with peers from around the world and gain insights into their diverse professional and research interests.
  • The Recurrent Weight Gain session, which provided valuable updates on the latest definitions and terminology regarding weight regain and highlighted how to incorporate the range of available options in a rational, evidence-based approach.
  • Bonus: An extraordinary presentation on the future of artificial intelligence in metabolic bariatric surgery by Dr. Safraz Khohkhar, delivered entirely through real-time AI! The audience was captivated, as this demonstration showcased both the practical applications and the vast potential of AI in our field.

  Another milestone of the congress was the gala dinner, which was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was not only an elegant affair but also a unique opportunity to interact with experts in an informal setting, fostering connections that will undoubtedly benefit my career in the long term.

  I am deeply grateful for the scholarship grant that enabled my participation. This experience has enriched my professional education and has inspired me to continue advancing my skills and knowledge in bariatric surgery.

  
  
   
• Prusha Shwan Mohammed Salih, Kurdistan region of Iraq

  I was fortunate to attend the recent IFSO World Congress in Melbourne, thanks to the scholarship grant that I was awarded by IFSO, which made this invaluable experience possible. The congress provided me with the opportunity to connect with old friends and esteemed experts in bariatric surgery, which significantly enhanced both my knowledge and my professional network.

  Throughout the event, I participated in sessions that expanded my understanding of the latest developments and best practices in bariatric surgery. The presentations and discussions were rich in insights, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of emerging techniques and innovations in the field.  Among the highlights were the following:

  • The IFSO Chapters Championship (Shark Tank) and Battle of the Experts sessions, which were both highly engaging and educational, bringing real-life cases to the forefront in an interactive and lively way.
  • The Young IFSO session, where I had the chance to connect with peers from around the world and gain insights into their diverse professional and research interests.
  • The Recurrent Weight Gain session, which provided valuable updates on the latest definitions and terminology regarding weight regain and highlighted how to incorporate the range of available options in a rational, evidence-based approach.
  • Bonus: An extraordinary presentation on the future of artificial intelligence in metabolic bariatric surgery by Dr. Safraz Khohkhar, delivered entirely through real-time AI! The audience was captivated, as this demonstration showcased both the practical applications and the vast potential of AI in our field.

  Another milestone of the congress was the gala dinner, which was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was not only an elegant affair but also a unique opportunity to interact with experts in an informal setting, fostering connections that will undoubtedly benefit my career in the long term.

  I am deeply grateful for the scholarship grant that enabled my participation. This experience has enriched my professional education and has inspired me to continue advancing my skills and knowledge in bariatric surgery.

  
  
   
• Zia Ullah, Pakistan

  I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the Young IFSO Scholarship, which enabled me to attend the IFSO 2024 conference in Melbourne. This exceptional opportunity significantly enhanced my professional education in bariatric surgery.

  Conference Highlights

  The conference provided a platform to learn from renowned experts in the field. Key highlights included:

  • Plenary sessions
  • Sessions on revisional surgery and complication management
  • ⁠Medical management of obesity GLP1 analog

  Hands-on Experience

  The hands-on sessions at the exhibition were particularly engaging:

  • Robotic surgery simulation
  • Endo stapling
  • Simulations on endoscopy

  Contributions

  I was honoured to present three articles and a video case report. This experience encouraged me to continue contributing to the field.

  Impact

  Attending IFSO 2024 significantly broadened my knowledge and network. The scholarship enabled me to:

  • Enhance my understanding of bariatric surgery best practices
  • Establish connections with international experts
  • Showcase my research and receive valuable feedback

  Future Aspirations

  I am eagerly looking forward to more opportunities to grow and contribute to the field. I am waiting for future conferences, workshops, and collaborations that will allow me to

  • Expand my knowledge
  • Network with peers
  • Share knowledge

  Thank you for investing in my professional growth. Your support has motivated me to pursue excellence in bariatric surgery.

  I look forward to continuing to contribute to the field of bariatric surgery.