RBSS President 2025-2026
Dear RBSS members,
As a hepatopancreatobiliary oncologic surgeon and President of the Royal Belgian Society of Surgery, it is both an honor and a pleasure to welcome you to our next national congress, from the 23th to the 26th of April 2026. The theme for this year — “Individualized Surgical Oncology: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Innovation” — reflects a vision that I believe is both timely and essential. Surgical oncology remains one of the most demanding and complex fields of our profession. Today, we are challenged to deliver treatments that are not only technically sophisticated, but also tailored to the unique biological, physical, and emotional realities of every individual patient. Innovation plays an expanding role in how we face these challenges. Advances in imaging, molecular profiling, robotics, and artificial intelligence are reshaping our practice, offering new opportunities to make surgery safer, smarter, and more precise. However, as we look forward, we must also remain grounded in the fundamental principles that have guided generations of surgeons before us — anatomy, clinical judgment, and a profound respect for the human body as an entity. Techniques that have stood the test of time, the wisdom gained from experience, and the humility learned in the operating room remain as relevant as ever — even as we push the boundaries of what is possible.I believe deeply that the future of surgery depends on this delicate fusion of tradition and innovation. To the young surgeons among us : the path you’ve chosen is not easy. It will test your limits, both professionally and personally. But it is also deeply meaningful. In a time when many in medicine — and society — struggle with a sense of purpose, returning to your core values is key. What will carry you through is not just knowledge or skill, but your passion for making a difference in the lives of your patients. Let this passion inspire your learning, sharpen your judgment, and remind you, even in the toughest moments, why you chose this remarkable profession. Stay curious, committed, and above all, stay passionate for your patients, for your craft, and for excellence . Let this congress be a space for learning, reflection, and inspiration. I look forward to welcoming you there.
Alexandra Dili, MD, PhD President of the Royal Belgian Surgical Society 2025-2026 |
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