Three conferences, lots of conversations and probably a new personal record for the number of kilometres covered at the exhibition.
The annual meetings of the German Society for Neurosurgery, the German Society for Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and the German Society for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery are now behind us.
For medical professionals, these conferences mean one thing above all else: professional exchange, new scientific insights and the opportunity to look beyond the confines of one’s own clinic.
For us as a manufacturer, such events are at least as valuable. Of course, we present our solutions – but above all, we listen.
After all, the most interesting information is often not found on the slides of the presentations, but in casual conversations or when discussing a particularly challenging patient case.
Once again this year, it became clear that the demand for patient-specific solutions is constantly growing. Digital planning, more precise processes and individualised treatment plans are playing an ever-greater role.
At the same time, expectations regarding efficiency, predictability and close interdisciplinary collaboration are rising.
This is precisely where the importance of continuous dialogue between surgery, academia and industry becomes apparent. For it is only by knowing and understanding the challenges of everyday clinical practice that we can jointly develop solutions which meet the needs of surgeons – and ultimately benefit patients.
Specialist conferences are so much more than a series of lectures and exhibition stands. The most valuable ideas often emerge between scientific sessions, spontaneous conversations at the stand and the odd cup of coffee. For us, it is precisely these encounters that make all the difference and cannot be replaced by any online meeting.
Admittedly, this year too we’ve once again covered quite a few (many) kilometres through exhibition halls and definitely drunk more cups of coffee than was good for us. Yet every single exchange has shown why this effort is worthwhile.
A heartfelt thank you to all the doctors, long-standing partners, interested parties and new contacts for the many inspiring conversations, the trust placed in us and the valuable insights. We’re already looking forward to seeing you again at the upcoming conferences.
And, incidentally, we also learn other important things at conferences:
- Coffee is a currency in its own right.
- “I just have a quick question” takes an average of 20 minutes.
- The best ideas often don’t come in the lecture theatre, but on the way to the next appointment.
Picture source: 3di GmbH (NH)