1st Najaf Al Ashraf Medical Congress "Global frontiers in minimally invasive surgery"

The congress is dedicated to surgical excellence, innovation, and cross-border collaboration between Italy and Iraq organised by Gruppo San Donato Italy and Health Directorate Najaf Al Ashraf.

With a focus on advancing minimally invasive practices across key subfields, laparoscopic surgery, robotic techniques, endoscopic procedures, and surgical education, the congress is designed to accelerate the exchange of clinical expertise and modernize surgical care across borders.

Organized in partnership with the Iraqi Ministry of Health, Iraqi Society of Surgeons, Arab Board of Health Specializations and Jabir Bin Hayyan Medical University, the event will bring together world-renowned experts, regional leaders, and emerging professionals to explore the present and future of surgical innovation.

Across three days, the scientific program will blend keynote lectures, thematic sessions, advanced workshops, and a dedicated Live Surgery Masterclass, all aimed at fostering practical exchange and inspiring the next generation of surgical talent in Iraq and beyond.

Day 1: Foundations, Innovations, and GSD’s Legacy

08:00 – 09:00 — Registration & Welcome Coffee
09:00 – 09:30 — Opening Ceremony & Inaugural Address
09:30 – 10:00 — Keynote 1: GSD’s Role in Advancing Surgery in Iraq and Globally — Chief Organiser/President
10:00 – 10:15 — Coffee Break
10:15 – 11:00 — Keynote 2: The Future of Minimally Invasive Surgery and Robotics — Prof. Rosatti & Prof. Amjad Pervez
11:00 – 12:15 — Session 1: Advanced Laparoscopy
12:15 – 13:00 — Panel Discussion: Surgical Training in Evolving Systems in Iraq
13:00 – 14:00 — Lunch Break
14:00 – 15:15 — Session 2: Minimally Invasive GI & Hepatobiliary Surgery
15:15 – 15:45 — Poster Viewing & Coffee
15:45 – 17:00 — Session 3: Minimally Invasive Orthopedic Surgery
17:00 – 17:45 — Workshop A: Surgical Skills Lab
19:00 — Gala Dinner & Cultural Networking Event

Day 2: Frontiers in Tech, Spine, and Future Visions

08:30 – 09:00 — Morning Coffee
09:00 – 09:45 — Keynote 3: Global Trends in Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery
09:45 – 11:00 — Session 4: Innovation in Endoscopic and Day Surgery
11:00 – 11:15 — Coffee Break
11:15 – 12:30 — Session 5: Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery/TBD
12:30 – 13:30 — Lunch Break
13:30 – 14:45 — Session 6: AI, Imaging & Smart Technologies in Surgery
14:45 – 15:30 — Workshop B: Energy Devices & Instrument Handling
15:30 – 16:00 — Poster Awards & Best Presentation Recognition
16:00 – 16:45 — Closing Plenary: Building the Next Chapter in Surgical Collaboration — Mr. Azhar Shabbir

Day 3: Live Surgery Masterclass

09:00 – 10:30 — Live Surgery 1: Laparoscopic Extraperitoneal Hernia Repair (Stream A)
10:30 – 12:00 — Live Surgery 2: Laparoscopic Gastric Resection & Large Hiatal Hernia Repair (Stream B)
12:00 – 13:00 — Lunch Break
13:00 – 14:30 — Live Surgery 3: Arthroscopic Shoulder Repair (Stream C)
14:30 – 16:00 — Live Surgery 4: Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty & TIF Procedure (Stream D)
16:00 – 17:30 — Live Surgery 5: Minimally Invasive Spinal Procedure — MIS TLIF or Cervical Disc Replacement (Stream E)

We welcome the submission of original research, clinical studies, and case reports related to minimally invasive surgery. Selected authors will have the opportunity to present in oral or poster format.

Abstract deadline: September 2025

To submit your abstract and complete your registration, please send your work by email to congressopsd-najaf@grupposandonato.it or fill out the appropriate online form:

Registration Form for Participants | Registration Form for Speakers | Industry Registration Form