KARACHI (. ): Medical experts have warned that complex tumours in the parotid gland (salivary gland), if not diagnosed in time and surgically managed with precision, can result in irreversible damage to facial nerves and pose serious threats to patients’ lives. This caution was shared during the “Parotid Gland Diseases Day” organised by Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) in collaboration with the Directorate of Global Engagement and the Department of ENT at Dr Ruth K.M. Pfau Civil Hospital, Karachi. The event took place at Dow Medical College.
The primary objective of the event was to enhance awareness among postgraduate trainee doctors in ENT, general surgery, maxillofacial surgery, and BDS regarding the latest diagnostic and surgical advancements in managing parotid gland diseases — especially complex and malignant tumours.
Two key lectures were delivered on “Diagnosis of Parotid Gland Tumours” and “Challenges in Parotid Gland Surgery,” focusing on diagnostic dilemmas, intraoperative risks, and post-operative complications. The event also featured a poster exhibition, showcasing research cases — many collected within just six months — demonstrating a high standard of research and data collection.
Posters from multiple institutions, including the Aga Khan University, were displayed, with two entries by postgraduate trainees from ENT Unit-I of Civil Hospital Karachi being recognised as the best.
The event was presided over by DUHS Vice Chancellor Prof. Jehan Ara Hassan. Other distinguished guests included Prof. Saba Sohail (Principal, Dow Medical College), Dr. Farjad Sultan (Director PDC), renowned ENT specialists Prof. Umar Farooq, Prof. Shaheen Malik, Prof. Murtaza Ahsan, and international faculty member Dr. Shadaba Ahmed from the United Kingdom.
The event was moderated by Prof. Dr. Zeba Ahmed, Head of the ENT Department, with Dr. Tahmina Junaid serving as the coordinator. Organisational support was provided by the Directorate of Global Engagement.
Experts stressed that such academic events not only offer valuable training opportunities but also serve as vital platforms for collaborative research and knowledge sharing. “Parotid Gland Diseases Day” stood as a reflection of DUHS’s commitment to education, research, and community service — part of the university’s broader efforts to improve patient care standards.