Dr. Reshwin Rajan from Solomon Islands presented a paper at the New Zealand Orthopaedic Association. Here is his report:
NZOA Pacific Ambassador Program was initiated by NZOA and Orthopacifix Charitable trust in 2018. Dr Raymond Saulep(PNG), was the first candidate. This year I was fortunate enough to be selected as the second Pacific Ambassador to NZOA. This program involved a week of observership at Tauranga Hospital and attending the NZOA ASM. This year the NZOA ASM was held at Dunedin, NZ, from 29th September to 2nd October.
On the final day of the conference, I also presented my paper on “Epidemiology of Soccer Related Fractures in Solomon Islands”. It was well received by the audience and I received a lot of positive remarks. It was indeed an honor representing PIOA at the NZOA 69th ASM. In summary, it was a great learning experience for me. During my six days attachment at Tauranga Hospital, I was involved in a total of 12 surgeries (mostly trauma and a few elective cases).
I would like to thank Orthopacifix Charitable Trust for meeting my travel expenses, not forgetting Mr Vane and Poutawera(VP) for accommodating me at Tauranga. Lastly but not the least, it was a great joy meeting my Brother Dr Areta and PIOA President Dr Stephen Kodovaru. Thanks again for making my stay in NZ a memorable experience.