Trichy | 21 September 2026: Kauvery Hospital, Trichy, in association with the Association of Surgeons of India (ASI), Tamil Nadu & Puducherry Chapter and the Indian Society of Gastroenterology (ISG), Tamil Nadu Chapter, successfully hosted the 10th edition of CATALYST – Advanced Laparoscopic Surgical Skills Course from September 18–20, 2026 at Courtyard Marriott, Cantonment, Trichy.
The programme was designed for surgeons seeking to advance their skills beyond basic laparoscopic techniques through structured practical training, expert mentorship, and live operative learning.
Programme Highlights
- CATALYST (Centre of Academy of Training in Advanced Laparoscopy and Surgical Techniques) offered:
- Two days of intensive wet‑lab training.
- One full day of live laparoscopic surgery.
- Participants gained practical exposure to advanced minimally invasive techniques under experienced mentors.
- Included step‑by‑step operative videos, technical tips, and focused discussions on preventing and managing intraoperative challenges.
- Directed by Dr. S. Velmurugan, HOD & Senior Consultant Laparoscopic GI/HPB/Bariatric & Robotic Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital.
- Faculty and mentors from across Tamil Nadu contributed to the sessions.
Dr. D. Senguttuvan, Co‑Founder & Executive Director, Kauvery Hospital, Trichy: “Medical education is integral to our mission at Kauvery Hospital. CATALYST has evolved into a focused platform for surgeons to strengthen their practical skills, learn from experienced faculty, and engage with advances in minimally invasive surgery. The tenth edition reflected our continued commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for professional learning and clinical development.”
Dr. S. Velmurugan, Course Director: “The tenth edition of CATALYST built on our focus on practical, hands‑on surgical learning. By combining wet‑lab training, personalised mentorship, and live operative learning, the programme gave participants an opportunity to refine their techniques and address the practical challenges encountered in advanced laparoscopic surgery.”
Departmental Expertise
Kauvery Hospital’s Department of Surgical Gastroenterology and Minimal Access Surgery offers a comprehensive range of advanced procedures, including:
- Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, CBD Exploration, Choledochal Cyst Excision, Fundoplication, Heller’s Cardiomyotomy, Perforation Closure, Hernia Repair (including complex incisional hernia).
- GI/HPB cancer surgeries: Total Laparoscopic Whipple’s, Distal Pancreatectomy, Puestow, Radical Cholecystectomy, Colectomy, Anterior/Abdomino‑Perineal Resection, Gastrectomy with D2 Lymphadenectomy, Thoracoscopy, Oesophagectomy, Liver Resections.
- Obesity Surgery: Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass.
- Advanced Robotic Surgery.
The department is also a recognised centre for the FNB Fellowship Course in Minimal Access Surgery, accredited by the National Board of Examinations.
About Kauvery Hospital
Kauvery Hospital is a leading multi‑specialty healthcare provider in India, recognised for its commitment to clinical excellence, patient‑centric care, and advanced medical infrastructure.
- Operates a network of 12 hospitals across six key locations: Trichy, Chennai, Salem, Hosur, Tirunelveli, and Bengaluru.
- Employs 11,000+ healthcare professionals.
- Serves millions of patients annually with high‑quality secondary and tertiary care.
- Strong focus on innovation, clinical outcomes, and continuous advancement in healthcare delivery.
