The Dawn of a New Era in Laparoscopic Training
In 1998, a watershed moment in the history of surgical training in India occurred with the establishment of the Bangalore Endoscopic Surgery, Training Institute & Research Centre, popularly known as the B.E.S.T Institute. Founded with an ambitious motto to democratize the art of laparoscopic surgery, the institute has tirelessly worked to make advanced surgical care accessible even in the most remote corners of the country.
Dr. Makam Ramesh’s Global Journey
The mastermind behind B.E.S.T Institute is Dr. Makam Ramesh, a pioneer of advanced laparoscopic surgery in Karnataka. Before founding the institute, Dr. Ramesh embarked on an exhaustive journey spanning 5 years, visiting more than 26 reputed centers in 7 countries. This international experience allowed him to assimilate diverse techniques and best practices, which later became the foundational pillars of the institute.
The Initial Curriculum:
Expanded
A Confluence of Global Best Practices
Upon his return, Dr. Ramesh tailored a comprehensive, practically oriented laparoscopic training course. This course amalgamated the best practices from the various training centers he had visited. Initially designed to train surgeons, gynecologists, and urologists, the curriculum at B.E.S.T Institute is now continually updated to include the latest surgical techniques and technologies.
The Evolution of Training Programs:
Expanded
Catering to a Diverse Audience
The courses quickly gained traction among private practitioners, especially those owning nursing homes and small hospitals. Realizing the potential for wider impact, the institute then strategically shifted its focus towards faculty at medical colleges, enabling the benefits of laparoscopy to reach underprivileged communities. This pivot expanded the institute's footprint, attracting medical professionals from all over India and even from countries like Malaysia, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and beyond.
Affordability and Innovation:
Expanded
A Commitment to Broader Access
One of the institute's standout achievements has been its focus on affordability. Dr. Ramesh collaborated with several Indian companies to design cost-effective laparoscopic instruments. Innovations did not stop there; the institute developed an 'Endotrainer,' which significantly reduced the cost of training stations from Rs. 15 lakhs to just a few thousands.
Skill Development and Assessment:
Expanded
The Path to Mastery
B.E.S.T Institute has been groundbreaking in its pedagogical approach. It has designed unique skill training methods and rigorous assessment modules. Unlike traditional training programs where surgeons learn while operating on patients, the institute provides surgeons with various gadgets and simulators, allowing them to master their skills in a controlled environment before moving on to live surgeries.
The Digital Footprint:
Expanded
Spreading Knowledge Globally
The institute made an early foray into digital outreach by launching its website in 2000 during the World Congress of Endoscopic Surgery in Singapore. This digital platform served as a free knowledge transfer channel, and its impact resonates even today with its current website, www.bestinstitute.org.in, which continues to be a valuable resource for surgeons worldwide.
