Aesculap Academy Thailand Jointly Pioneer Healthcare Standards with the AP Region’s First EDRA Part 2B Examination and Expertise Sharing in Regional Anaesthesia

Bangkok, Thailand – November 21-22, 2024 - Aesculap Academy Thailand part of the B. Braun Group, in collaboration with Siriraj Hospital and the European Society of Regional Anaesthesia & Pain Therapy (ESRA), successfully organized the 6th EDRA Approved Cadaver Workshop for Ultrasound-Guided Regional Anesthesia. This international workshop aimed to share knowledge and introduce new techniques in ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks, enhancing professional standards and advancing the expertise of anesthesiologists to meet the growing demands of the era. The workshop was attended by over 50 participants from 12 countries across the Asia-Pacific region.

This event marked a milestone by hosting renowned faculty, recognized as leading experts both nationally and internationally, ensuring the highest quality of knowledge transfer during the event including:

• Prof. Paul Kessler, MD., PhD. (Chair, ESRA Cadaver Workshop Committee & Anatomy Workshop)
• Dr. Peter Merjavy, MD., PhD. (Chair, ESRA Instructor Course Committee & Anatomy workshop; Co-Chair, Regional Anesthesia Cadaver Workshop; Vice Chair, EDRA Part II; Editor, ESRA Newsletter)
• Dr. Morné Wolmarans, MD. (Chair, ESRA European Diploma in Regional Anesthesia; Co-Editor, ESRA Newsletter)
• Assoc. Prof. Suwimon Tangwiwat, MD. (Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Thailand)
• Assoc. Prof. Takayuki Yoshida, MD., PhD. (Kansai Medical University, Japan)
• Dr. Rahendra (Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Indonesia)
• Assist. Prof. Jatuporn Pakpirom, MD. (Faculty of Medicine Prince of Songkla University)

On November 23, 2024, the EDRA Part 2B examination, formally titled the “European Diploma in Regional Anaesthesia & Acute Pain Management (EDRA) Practical Oral Examination (Part 2B),” was held for the first time in the region and in Thailand. This exam is the second and final part of the EDRA certification process. Participants who had successfully passed the EDRA Part 1 exam were eligible to take this exam to obtain the internationally recognized qualification in regional anesthesia. More than 10 candidates were assessed by esteemed examiners from the ESRA society examination board, which has been internationally recognized by the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS), marking a significant milestone in the process of achieving international accreditation.

B. Braun and Aesculap Academy are proud to support this advancement in the professional field, reinforcing confidence in the standards of medical services. This initiative not only enhances education but also fosters professional growth for anesthesiologists and healthcare professionals. This collaborative effort marks a significant step forward in empowering the healthcare community with world-class training and knowledge exchange. With a steadfast commitment to sharing expertise, we continue to protect and improve the health of people worldwide.

Prof. Paul Kessler, MD., PhD. (Chair, ESRA Cadaver Workshop Committee & Anatomy Workshop) said that “I’m excited to share that our workshop held in collaboration with Siriraj Hospital, Aesculap Academy and B. Braun Thailand, was a great success. Both the workshop and examination provided an invaluable opportunity for participants from many countries to come together, exchange skills, and build lasting connections in the field of regional anesthesia. What makes this even more special is that this examination was held for the first time in an Asia-Pacific country, marking a wonderful milestone for us all. We’re looking forward to seeing you again and continuing our collaborations in the future, as we strive to elevate standards and bring even more learning opportunities to this field.”

Dr. Peter Merjavy, MD., PhD. (Chair, ESRA Instructor Course Committee & Anatomy workshop; Co-Chair, Regional Anesthesia Cadaver Workshop; Vice Chair, EDRA Part II; Editor, ESRA Newsletter) said that “We have successfully completed the two-day cadaver workshop in collaboration with Siriraj Hospital, B. Braun, and Aesculap Academy Thailand. Additionally, we held the EDRA Examination Part 2B practical exam, where candidates demonstrated their knowledge in applied anatomy for regional anaesthesia, problem solving and practical ultrasound scanning skills. It was an excellent opportunity for knowledge exchange and skill enhancement. We are grateful for the warm hospitality and the opportunity to contribute to the professional growth of the participants. Thank you for the invitation—it has truly been a brilliant time here. We hope to return next year to continue expanding knowledge in the region.”

Dr. Morné Wolmarans, MD. (Chair, ESRA European Diploma in Regional Anesthesia; Co-Editor, ESRA Newsletter) said that “The three-day workshop and EDRA Examination Part 2B have come to a successful close, marking a significant milestone as the first time we’ve held the examination outside of Europe. We are deeply grateful to all our esteemed partners—Siriraj Hospital, B. Braun, and the unwavering support of Aesculap Academy Thailand. A special and heartfelt thank you to all the participants, whose enthusiasm and dedication played a vital role in making this event not only successful but truly memorable. Together, we have expanded knowledge and enriched skills, creating an invaluable experience here in the region. We are sincerely thankful for this collaboration and eagerly look forward to the opportunity to reunite next year to continue our journey of growth and excellence.”

Assoc. Prof. Suwimon Tangwiwat, MD. (Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Thailand) said that “I am truly proud to host this event, the 6th International EDRA Approved Cadaver Workshop for Ultrasound-Guided Regional Anesthesia here in Thailand. It is an honor that Siriraj Hospital serves as the venue for both the workshop and the examination providing a platform to share knowledge and skills through meaningful collaboration. This event reflects our shared commitment to advancing the field of regional anesthesia and fostering professional growth on an international level. I sincerely hope to welcome you again next year as we continue to build on this success together.”

Mr. Sayan Roy (Managing Director, B. Braun (Thailand) Limited) said that “B. Braun and Aesculap Academy Thailand are proud to support initiatives like the 6th EDRA Approved Cadaver Workshop for Ultrasound-Guided Regional Anesthesia and the EDRA Examination Part 2B, which inspire healthcare professionals to learn, grow, and lead with excellence. We are deeply grateful to Siriraj Hospital and ESRA for their invaluable collaboration in making this event possible in the region. As a true partner to healthcare professionals, we believe that sharing knowledge is the key to driving advancement in health care. Through our commitment in fostering global cooperation, we continue to push boundaries and set new standards in medical education and patient care. It is our privilege to continually share our expertise, working together to advance knowledge and elevate the field of healthcare for the benefit of patients.”