Held at the end of June 2024 in Ho Chi Minh City, the Annual Congress of the ENT Association of Ho Chi Minh City concluded with notable participation from many leading experts in their fields. This time, FV Hospital was represented by Vo Cong Minh, MD, PhD; Le Nguyen Uyen Chi, MD, PhD and Specialist Level II, Nguyen Viet Quynh Thu, MD, MSc who all presented reports.

Posterior nasal nerve surgery – A technique to improve quality of life

The 2nd congress in 2024, themed “Updates on Diagnosis and Effective Treatment of ENT Diseases in the Vietnamese Climate,” was organised by the ENT Association of Ho Chi Minh City and the Southern Provinces. With its timely theme, the congress received high praise from professionals and attracted nearly 1,000 participants both in-person and online.

At the congress, Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Dung, MD, PhD – President of the Ho Chi Minh City Medical Association, and Prof. Pham Kien Huu, MD, PhD – President of the ENT Association of Ho Chi Minh City, remarked on the high quality of the second congress. They noted that the numerous excellent reports comprehensively met the learning requirements of the attendees. The professional leaders also expressed their hope that the presenters and experts would continue to conduct further research and contribute to Vietnamese medicine.

Participating in this congress, Vo Cong Minh, MD, PhD – Head of the ENT Department at FV Hospital, presented a highly useful technique: “Effectiveness and Safety of Posterior Nasal Nerve Surgery.” This surgery is used to treat several persistent and uncomfortable nasal conditions such as chronic rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, chronic sneezing, runny nose, reduced sense of smell, and persistent postnasal drip. These conditions are typically managed with medication, with surgery being offered when medicinal treatment is ineffective.

In the presentation, Vo Cong Minh, MD, PhD compared the advantages and disadvantages of the Vidian nerve resection technique (previously used) with the new posterior nasal nerve resection technique. Dr Minh stated, “The posterior nasal nerve resection technique has been proven to be safer, with fewer complications and higher efficacy than the previous techniques.” Currently, not many surgeons in Vietnam are capable of performing this technique, but the benefits for patients are significant as it can effectively address the very uncomfortable symptoms of chronic rhinitis.

The reports from FV Hospital focused on practical medical science.

Meanwhile, Le Nguyen Uyen Chi, MD, PhD. a senior doctor from ENT Department at FV Hospital, delivered a presentation with a focus on practical medical science. The topic, “Nasal Morphology & Surrounding Structures” provided fascinating information about the ideal structure and shape of the nose, as well as nearby areas such as the forehead, eyes, lips, chin, and surrounding soft tissues. Dr Chi delved into a detailed analyses and specific illustrations, such as the ideal length and angles of different noses that harmonise with various facial shapes, and the correlation between changes in nose shape and adjacent features.

Dr Uyen Chi’s presentation also highlighted how modern imaging techniques have greatly assisted in planning treatment or nasal and adjacent structure reconstructions. “The nose in particular, and the surrounding areas in general need to be in harmony. Even a small change in any structure can impact the overall facial appearance.”

In a more timely topic, Specialist Level II, Nguyen Viet Quynh Thu, MD, MSc. Head of Dietetics & Nutrition Department at FV Hospital, presented on the topic “Nutrition for Immune Enhancement and Seasonal Disease Prevention.” Dr Quynh Thu’s report concentrated on the importance of nutrition in boosting and regulating the immune system, especially during transitional weather periods.

Dr Quynh Thu believes, “Choosing foods with appropriate nutrients and balanced ratios helps the body stay healthy and build strong resistance against various pathogens.” Her presentation detailed the daily menus and meals provided to patients at FV Hospital to boost their immune system during hospitalisation and support faster recovery. She emphasised the importance of nutrients such as protein, omega-3, vitamins A, C, E, and D, selenium, iron, and zinc, as well as daily natural sunlight exposure to strengthen the immune system during seasonal changes.

The 2^nd Annual Congress of Oto, Rhino, And Laryngology 2024, organised by the ENT Association of Ho Chi Minh City, was not only a platform for networking and learning but also an opportunity for medical experts to communicate the latest research and knowledge in the field. The active participation of FV Hospital doctors continues to highlight their commitment to advancing the healthcare sector in Vietnam.