The theme of WALS 2025 was “Recent Advances in Minimal Access and Robotic Surgery.” Throughout the congress, this focus guided the scientific deliberations, keynote addresses, live surgeries, and research presentations. Delegates explored cutting-edge innovations and shared insights that are shaping the future of minimally invasive and robotic surgery worldwide.
The Eighth World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS 2025) was successfully held at The Leela Ambience, Gurugram, an exquisite five-star venue that provided an exceptional backdrop for this landmark event. Its cutting-edge facilities and impeccable service contributed to a seamless and distinguished congress experience. Strategically located in the heart of Gurugram, just 5 kilometers from Indira Gandhi International Airport, the venue perfectly blended luxury with accessibility. Notably, WALS 2025 received official approval from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, which ensured smooth entry and expedited visa clearance for our international delegates.
The Leela Ambience Gurugram, was an exquisite five-star haven, offers an unparalleled backdrop for our World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons.
Brochure of WALS 2025 Conference
Scientific Program of Conference
At WALS 2025, academic excellence was recognized through the presentation of the Gold Medal for Best Abstract. This prestigious award honored the most outstanding contribution among the submitted abstracts, reflecting the high standards of research and innovation showcased at the congress.
During WALS 2025, the top three case studies were selected through rigorous evaluation and will be published in the World Journal of Laparoscopic Surgery (WJOLS). This recognition not only highlights the high academic standards of the congress but also provides an esteemed platform for disseminating innovative clinical experiences to the global surgical community.
Delegates at WALS 2025 enjoyed comprehensive access to all scientific sessions along with a host of exclusive benefits. These included complimentary indemnity insurance coverage of ₹10 lakhs, lunch and high tea on both days, and a lavish banquet dinner on the opening day. The congress also featured a dignified inauguration ceremony, captivating cultural performances, and a musical evening. Each participant received a complete conference kit and a commemorative memento, ensuring the experience was as memorable as it was academically enriching.
The multi-specialty conference of the World Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons stands as a cornerstone for advancing knowledge in laparoscopic, robotic, and endoscopic surgery. This prestigious international event unites laparoscopic surgeons, gynecologists, and urologists in a comprehensive program that includes Postgraduate Master’s Classes, Plenary Sessions, and updates on innovations in laparoscopic, da Vinci robotic, and endoscopic techniques. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in insightful reviews and discussions of minimally invasive surgical videos, highlighting both the triumphs and challenges encountered in the field.

At WALS 2025, organized in association with the World Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons, every attending surgeon and gynecologist received a remarkable benefit — complimentary indemnity insurance worth ₹10 lakh. This exclusive offering reinforced the congress’s dedication to the welfare and professional security of its delegates, making the event truly distinguished on the global stage.
The exclusive insurance coverage at WALS 2025 was provided by Apex Insurance Consultant Limited (AICL), India’s largest and most trusted professional insurance company. This initiative, designed to offer financial security and peace of mind, highlighted WALS’s ongoing commitment to supporting the professional growth and well-being of the global surgical and gynecological community. By extending comprehensive indemnity coverage to all delegates, the congress set a new benchmark in international medical gatherings.
The Eighth World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS 2025) witnessed pioneering surgeons from across the globe performing live surgeries, including intricate da Vinci robotic procedures demonstrated by leading experts. The congress also hosted an exhibition of state-of-the-art laparoscopic instruments and literature, alongside competitive sessions for Best Papers and Case Presentations. A diverse collection of videos and posters, contributed by eminent professors, fellows, and residents, provided a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in minimal access surgery. Additionally, a Pre-Conference Workshop offered hands-on training, which was enthusiastically attended by surgeons eager to refine their practical skills.
The Future Surgical Technology Sessions at WALS 2025 proved to be a major highlight, captivating participants with their forward-looking insights. Over the span of two days, delegates engaged with more than 100 scientific presentations spanning general surgery, gynecology, urology, and various other specialties. Complementing the robust academic program, a vibrant cultural and social agenda enriched the congress, making it an intellectually rewarding as well as memorable experience for all attendees.
At WALS 2025, the congress once again reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an open forum for laparoscopic surgeons, gynecologists, and healthcare professionals with a shared interest in minimally invasive surgery. The scientific deliberations underscored the importance of minimally invasive techniques as a global solution for improving patient health. The leadership, research, and innovations showcased during the meeting were recognized as vital to the ongoing evolution of minimal access surgery within a patient-centered healthcare system.
As an international body representing medical professionals engaged in minimal access surgery, the World Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS) reaffirmed its dedication at WALS 2025 to advancing expertise in minimally invasive techniques. Through the congress, WALS made a significant contribution to the expanding body of knowledge in the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of laparoscopic, robotic, endoscopic, and other minimally invasive procedures, further strengthening its role as a global leader in this field.
The 8th International Conference of the World Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS 2025) successfully brought together hundreds of surgeons, gynecologists, urologists, and pediatric surgeons from across the globe. This landmark congress on Minimal Access Surgery proved to be a pivotal event, uniting experts from diverse specialties and regions. The dynamic exchange of knowledge and experience highlighted the collective leadership of the surgical community in shaping the future of minimally invasive surgery worldwide.
The Eighth World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS 2025) proved to be an empowering and invigorating global nexus, bringing together many of the world’s most esteemed and renowned laparoscopic surgeons. This unique gathering blended brilliance with innovation, fostering an environment of collaboration, knowledge exchange, and shared passion for advancing the field of minimally invasive surgery. The congress became a convergence point where the brightest minds inspired, learned, and collectively pushed the boundaries of surgical excellence — all in the pursuit of enhancing patient care worldwide.
REGISTRATION FEE DETAILS:
Category | Registration Fee |
---|---|
WALS Member | ₹ 8,999 |
WALS Non Member | ₹ 11,999 |
P G Student / Accompanying person | ₹ 6,999 |
CHIEF GUEST:
The Honorable Defence Minister of India, Sri Rajnath Singh, will grace the inauguration of the prestigious WALS conference with his presence.
"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the organizers and participants of the prestigious WALS conference. It will be truly commendable to see such a dedicated gathering of professionals committed to advancing the field of laparoscopic surgery, enhancing patient care, and fostering innovation for a healthier future."
INVITED FACULTIES:
Dr. Robert Rutledge, MD, FRCPC
M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Robert Rutledge, the creator of the Mini-Gastric Bypass (MGB) procedure, is based in Henderson, Nevada. He has over 45 years of experience in surgery and is associated with the Center for Laparoscopic Obesity Surgery.
Steven D. Wexner
M.D., F.A.C.S., F.R.C.S., F.R.C.S.Ed., F.A.S.C.R.S., F.A.C.G.
• Honorary Fellow, Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow (2019)
• Honorary Fellow, Royal College of Surgeons, Ireland (2017)
• President American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Research Foundation (2014-2016)
• Honorary membership to the European Surgical Association (2015)
• President American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (2011-2012)
• President American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery (2010-2011)
• Election to the Royal College of Surgeons of England (2008)
• President Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (2006-2007)
• Fellow, Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh (2001)
• Fellowship ad eundum, Royal College of Surgeons of England (February 10, 2000)
• Fellow, American College of Surgeons (October 1991)
Professor George Hanna, PhD, FRCS
President EAES Executive Board 2023 – 2025
Professor of Surgery, Head of Department of Surgery & Cancer
Faculty of Medicine
Imperial College, London
Padmshree Dr. Pradeep Chowbey
MS, MNAMS, FRCS (London), FIMSA, FAIS, FICS, FACS, FIAGES, FALS
Chairman- Max Institute of Minimal Access, Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
Chairman- Surgery and Allied Surgical Specialities
Executive Vice Chairman- Max Healthcare
Dr. Shailesh Puntambekar,
Medical Director at Galaxy Care Hospital
Laparoscopic Pelvic surgery and Gynecological cancer surgeon
First To Perform Uterus Transplant in India
Faculty of the AAGL Oncology Committee
Dr. Hrishikesh D. Pai
M.D., F.C.P.S., F.IC.O.G., MSc (USA)
Immediate Past President
Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI)
Dr Arun Prasad
FRCS (UK), FRCSEd, FACS MS ( MAMC ) MBBS ( AFMC )
Surgical Gastroenterologist, Bariatrics Surgery, General Surgeon
Dr. Satish Midha
President IAGES
Pioneer Laparoscopic GI Surgeon and G I Endoscopist
Dr. Premkumar Balachandran
MBBS, MS (GENERAL SURGERY), M.MAS (UK), FRCS (GLASGOW), FMAS, DMAS, DIP.ALS, FRS, FICS, FIAGES, FAMASI, FALS.
Senior consultant Minimal Access, Bariatric and Robotic surgeon, Apollo hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Dr. Reju Joseph Thomas
MS DNB FRCS in Surgery MCh & DNB in Paediatric Surgery; Masters in Minimal Access Surgery UK; Fellowship in Robotic Surgery; MBA (Healthcare) AHMP (ISB); Certified Professional in Quality Implementation in Healthcare (CPQIH by HSC, India).
Dr. Deep Goyal
MBBS; DNB; FRCS; FACS; Principal Director & HOD in Gastrointestinal Oncology Surgery Department | BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi.
Dr. Deepak Subramanian
MBBS M.S., MRCS (UK), Dip. in Laparoscopy (France), FIAGES, Fellow in Minimal Access Surgery (AMASI), Fellow in Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery FIBC, FALS, FICS, FACS, MBA (International Health care Management)
Sr. Consultant and Clinical Lead of Department of General Surgery, Surgical Gastro, Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgery at MGM Healthcare, Chennai, India
Dr. Dinesh Kansal
MBBS, MD, DGO, FCPS, Senior Director And Head - Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Laparoscopic Surgery at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi.
Dr. Parveen Bhatia
MS, FRCS (Eng), FICS, FIAGES (Hon), FMAS, FIMSA, FAIS, FALS, FCL, Chairman, Institute of Minimal Access Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery, Institute of Robotic Surgery(IRS), Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi
Dr. Rajesh Modi
DNB, FCPS, DGO, DFP, FICMCH, MNAMS, FICOG, Director Akola Endoscopy Centre Training Centre for Gynaecological Endoscopy Consultant Gyn Endoscopist Nanavati Hospital, Mumbai
Dr. Nutan Jain
MBBS; MD (OBG), FICOG, FICMCH, Director and Consultant at Vardhman Hospital, Muzaffarnagar.
Dr. Jain is a world-renowned and one of the best Gynae Laparoscopic Surgeons in India. Dr Nutan is also an accomplished trainer to many other gynaecologists in India and abroad.
Dr. B B Dash
MBBS, MD (AIIMS, New Delhi), MICOG, GSE (Canada)- Gynecologist & Laparoscopic Hysteroscopic surgeon
Dr. Dash is a highly regarded gynecologist and laparoscopic surgeon with 18 years of experience in gynecological laparoscopy and hysteroscopy. After completing his post-graduation at AIIMS, New Delhi, and a fellowship in Canada.
Prof. Naveen Alexander
MBBS, MS, MRCS(Ed), Dip.MIS (Strasbourg), FIAGES, FALS, FICS, FACS, FRCS(G)
Professor of General Surgery & Senior Consultant Laparoscopic, Bariatric and General Surgeon Department of General Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Porur, Chennai - 600116 Tamil Nadu, India
Dr T S Bala Shanmugam
MBBS, MS, F.MAS, Dip.MIS (Strasbourg), FIAGES, FICRS
Senior Consultant & HOD in Department of Minimally Invasive Bariatric & GI Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Chennai, India
Dr. Abhilash Kumar
MBBS, MS, FMAS, FIAGES, FALS
Consultant - GI, MIS, Bariatric surgery Gleneagles Health city, Chennai
Prof. Dr. Rajesh C. Shah
D.Sc., M.S.(Gen. Surg.), D.G.O., LL.B.(Spl.), Dip. Management, F.M.A.S., F.I.A.G.E.S., F.C.L.S., F.A.M.S., F.I.C.S.(U.S.A.), F.I.C.R.S.
Head, Department of General Surgery Nootan Medical College, Visnagar - 384315 Former Professor of Surgery and Medical Superintendent at Narendra Modi Medical College, affiliated with Sheth L.G. Municipal General Hospital, Smt. N.H.L. Municipal Medical College affiliated with Smt. S.C.L. Municipal General Hospital, Sheth V.S. Hospital, and Chinai Prasutigruh, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Positions Held: President: World Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons Past President & Trustee: International College of Surgeons - Indian Section President: Indian Society of Wound Management (2010-13) President: Indian Hernia Society (2012) President: Indian Medicolegal & Ethics Association (2019-20) Governing Council Member & Legal Cell Convenor: Association of Surgeons of India (2001-2006) Assessor: Medical Council of India & National Board of Examination Director: Six Sigma Health Care, New Delhi Organizing Chairman: SELSICON 2011 IAGES 2012 ICSISCON 2012 IMLEACOM 2018 FILMEICON 2022 Ex-Senior Division Commander & Staff Officer Medical: Gujarat State Home Guard International Advisory Editorial Board Member: "Hernia" Journal of Quality Council of India International Surgery Global South Healthcare Journal Advisory Board Member: International College of Robotic Surgeons
President of India's Medal Winner, "Father of Medicolegal Science" Awardee Best Hospital Administrator Awardee, "Best Medicolegal Expert Surgeon of India" Awardee, Founder President : Federation Internationale Law, Medicine, Ethics & Innovation
"I express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to attend the Eighth World Congress of Laparoscopic Surgeons and Gynecologists on 08th & 09th February 2025 at The Leela Ambience Gurugram, India. It is indeed a great privilege to be a part of this prestigious conference organized by the World Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS). As president of WALS indian chapter I have the chance to engage with global pioneers and experts in minimal access surgery is both humbling and inspiring. I eagerly anticipate the exchange of cutting-edge knowledge and best practices, which I am confident will contribute to the growth of our collective expertise in the field of laparoscopic surgery."





Venue: The Leela Ambience Gurugram
Organizing Chairman
Dr. R.K. Mishra
World Laparoscopy Hospital
Organizing Co-Chairman
Dr. B.S. Bhalla
World Laparoscopy Hospital
CONFERENCE SECRETERIAT:
World Laparoscopy Hospital
Cyber City, DLF Phase II
Gurugram, NCR Delhi, 122002
India
PHONES: +919811416838, +919811912768
For General Inquiry: +91(0)124 - 2351555
Email: wals2025@laparoscopyhospital.com