PGIMER- The inaugural Auditory Brainstem Implant (ABI) Workshop in the Asia Pacific region, hosted by the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery in collaboration with the Department of Neurosurgery, commenced at the Skill Lab in the Gamma Knife Centre, PGIMER, today.
 This landmark event brings together leading neurosurgeons, ENT specialists, and audiologists from premier institutions across the nation to delve into the transformative potential of ABI technology for patients with profound hearing loss.
The introduction of Auditory Brainstem Implants represents a pivotal advancement in managing hearing loss, particularly for individuals diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 2, absent cochlea, and non-functional auditory nerves. Previously, options like cochlear implants were not suitable for these patients, marking ABI as a revolutionary treatment pathway that can significantly enhance their quality of life.
Detailing about the Workshop, Prof. Ramandeep Virk, the Organizing Chairman stated, "This workshop marks a historic milestone in the Asia Pacific region as it presents the first opportunity for healthcare professionals to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to ABI," He said  "We are honored to host such an esteemed group of faculty and participants dedicated to innovating hearing solutions."
Prof. Virk further added, “This workshop is not merely an event; it represents a significant leap toward advancing auditory health care in the region, fostering collaboration, education, and innovation among professionals dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes.”
Spanning two dynamic days, the workshop will feature esteemed guest lectures and hands-on training under the guidance of renowned speakers, including Padmashree Professor Mohan Kameswaran from MERF Chennai and Professor Robert Behr from Germany, both experts in the field. Their invaluable contributions are complemented by insights from a roster of distinguished faculty, including Dr. Ramandeep Virk (PGIMER), Dr. Ravisankar (SGPGI), Dr. Apinderpreet Singh (PGIMER), Dr. Chirag Ahuja (PGIMER), Dr. Satyabhama (MERF Chennai), and clinical audiologists like Mr. Ranjith (MERF) and Mr. Marek Polak (MED-EL, Austria).
The workshop will cover varied topics including the anatomical considerations specific to the ABI procedure, indications for ABI, pre-operative imaging, and anaesthesia protocols, ultimately culminating in hands-on cadaver training. Participants will also benefit from technical sessions on the MED-EL ABI system, ensuring comprehensive understanding and exposure to innovative surgical techniques.
The invite-only workshop has attracted teams from noteworthy institutions including AIIMS Delhi, SGPGI Lucknow, and Reliance Hospital Mumbai. Each team comprises an ENT surgeon, a neurosurgeon, and an audiologist, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to learning and collaboration.