Chandigarh: The Department of Gastroenterology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, is organizing the 9th PGI Gastrointestinal (GI) Emergencies Update from November 14 to 16, 2025. This national-level academic event will bring together leading gastroenterologists, physicians, and trainees from across the country for focused discussions and hands-on learning on the theme of Gastrointestinal Emergencies.
The conference aims to enhance understanding and promote evidence-based management of emergencies related to the gastrointestinal tract and liver. Gastrointestinal emergencies are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and timely, goal-directed intervention during the crucial early hours can significantly improve patient outcomes.
The scientific program will cover a wide range of emergency conditions, including gastrointestinal bleeding, acute pancreatitis, complicated gallbladder disease, and complications of liver failure such as bleeding, infection, and hepatic encephalopathy. Dedicated sessions will also address intestinal obstruction, severe inflammatory bowel disease, corrosive ingestion, and critical care management of patients in the intensive care unit.
Speaking about the event, Prof Usha Dutta, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee, emphasized that the ninth edition of this program reflects the department’s sustained commitment to bridging the knowledge gap between frontline doctors managing emergencies and specialists in the field. “Our goal is to empower the first-contact physicians with the skills and confidence needed to handle GI emergencies effectively and improve patient outcomes,” she said.
Gastrointestinal bleeding—a common but potentially life-threatening emergency—will be one of the key focus areas. Experts will discuss the causes, including peptic ulcers, esophageal tears, and variceal bleeding in chronic liver disease, as well as the latest endoscopic techniques and therapeutic tools available for effective management.
Acute pancreatitis, another major GI emergency, will be covered extensively. This condition, often triggered by alcohol intake, gallstones, or high lipid levels, requires prompt recognition and early intervention, particularly in the first 72 hours. Sessions will address preventive strategies, early diagnosis, and comprehensive management protocols.
The conference will also feature deliberations on liver-related emergencies, including acute liver failure, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (infected ascites), and renal and cerebral complications of chronic liver disease. Other topics include acute severe ulcerative colitis, biliary obstruction and cholangitis, and foreign body ingestion—all of which demand timely, multidisciplinary management.
A hands-on training workshop will be held on November 14 2025 at Hotel Radisson RED, Mohali, led by Prof. S.K.Sinha, Dr. Jayanta Samanta, Dr. Abhirup Chatterjee. Participants will receive practical training through simulated models and case-based discussions. A special session on POCUS (Point-of-Care Ultrasound) will also be conducted to help residents and trainees enhance bedside diagnostic and procedural skills essential for managing GI emergencies.
The Organizing Chairperson of the conference is Prof. Usha Dutta, with Dr. Vishal Sharma and Dr. Jimil Shah served as Organizing Secretaries. The faculty includes distinguished experts from across India who will share the latest insights, research findings, and best practices in the management of gastroenterological emergencies.
Patients with gastrointestinal emergencies are often critically ill and require rapid, standardized care. This conference aims to provide a platform for meaningful knowledge exchange between experts and young physicians, ensuring that cutting-edge evidence and practical expertise translate into better patient outcomes. With rapid advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, such programs play a vital role in keeping healthcare professionals updated and prepared to deliver high-quality emergency care.
