A few days after the successful conclusion of the 36th Panamerican Congress of Trauma, Critical Care and Emergency Surgery, I address you with a deep feeling of gratitude. I would like to express my sincere thanks for the warm hospitality of our hosts in Peru, for having participated in an exceptional scientific program and for the opportunity to be part of the Panamerican Trauma Society. This prestigious association brings together professionals from various disciplines with a noble common goal: to improve trauma care in the Americas.
In life, we rarely find an environment in which we feel that we belong, where we are welcomed and can contribute significantly to the common good. For me, this is the feeling that the Panamerican Trauma Society evokes, a place with open doors for those professionals who share the same passion for excellence in trauma care.
In my new role as president of the Panamerican Trauma Society (PTS), I would like to extend a cordial invitation to actively participate in the various committees and programs. Your participation is invaluable and always welcome. In particular, I would like to highlight a series of activities of high academic value, which are difficult to replicate outside the Panamerican Trauma Society (SPT) environment:
Telemedicine: technology has shortened distances and allows us to share knowledge quickly and effectively. Its true value lies in the active participation of professionals. At the SPT, we have designed three key activities in which you can get involved, either by presenting a clinical case or sharing your perspectives on the approach or management of situations using the resources at your disposal. These are:
International Tele rounds: These sessions are held every Monday at 12:00 p.m. (ET) and bring together various societies to discuss trauma cases with a panel of experts. The sessions are held in English, offering a space for critical analysis and international collaboration.
Presentation of Cases in Spanish: On the first Wednesday of every month at 6:00 p.m. (ET) we hold a session dedicated to the presentation of cases in Spanish, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experiences in our language.
Presentations from Universidad del Valle, Colombia: Every Friday at 7:00 a.m. (ET) Universidad del Valle hosts presentations in Spanish, creating an enriching platform for academic debate and continuous improvement in trauma care.
Each of these activities is designed not only to improve individual skills, but also to strengthen our coexistence, promoting an environment of collaboration and continuous learning.
Additionally, the trauma registry is an essential tool for the systematic and accurate collection of data on trauma cases in various regions of the Americas. This registry forms the basis for scientific research focused on optimizing care protocols and developing innovative treatment strategies. The data obtained allows for the realization of studies that can be sent to publications such as the Panamerican Journal of Trauma, Critical Care & Emergency Surgery, contributing to the expansion of knowledge and influencing health policies and the adoption of best practices in trauma care. The Panamerican Trauma Society (SPT) promotes collaboration between institutions from different countries to carry out multicenter studies, strengthening the quality of research.
The SPT also organizes professional exchange programs that allow members to do rotations in trauma centers in different countries. These offer a unique opportunity to learn directly from the best practices implemented in different regions. This experience enriches their clinical practice and allows them to bring new ideas and methods to their institutions. In addition to technical learning, a valuable opportunity is offered for cultural exchange, which contributes to a better understanding and adaptation to the diverse needs and practices of communities throughout the Americas.
Our society has distinguished itself for its ability to actively collaborate with various scientific societies at a global level. Collaborations also extend to research projects that address specific problems in trauma management. By pooling resources and knowledge, the SPT and its partners can develop innovative solutions that have a significant impact on public health.
It is my privilege to invite you to our Annual Scientific Meeting, which will take place in Cuenca, Ecuador, from May 21 to 24, 2025. This event not only offers a unique opportunity to share and learn about the most recent advances in trauma care, but will also be a significant event as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ecuadorian Society of Surgeons. As always, we will feature a top-notch scientific program, comprised of presentations, panel discussions, and expert-led workshops. It will be an exceptional space for the exchange of ideas and the creation of new alliances, as well as for strengthening ties between members of the Panamerican Trauma Society (SPT).
I encourage you to take advantage of this occasion to renew your connections, establish new collaborations, and continue to advance together in our shared mission of improving trauma care in the Americas.
The three pillars that have consolidated the success of the SPT—interdisciplinary collaboration, respect for our origins, and passion for our work—have forged a unique identity. The PTS is a beacon of inspiration, whose story and impact resonate globally, leaving an indelible mark on the fight to improve trauma care and save lives.
I would like to express my sincere thanks for the warm hospitality of our hosts in Peru, for having participated in an exceptional scientific program and for the opportunity to be part of the Panamerican Trauma Society. This prestigious association brings together professionals from various disciplines with a noble common goal: to improve trauma care in the Americas.