The S&T Lecture: An Introduction to the 9th Congress of WSRM

Abstract

AbstractJust what is the S&T lecture? In the beginning it appeared to be a dubious distinction, another task thrust upon me but different in that I had absolutely no idea what was wanted or would be appropriate. At the least, it seemed reasonable to recite a simple introductory story for what would be an extraordinary conclave. First, an appreciation was due to our dedicated leaders of World Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery (WSRM), who this year (2017) have put together the most extravagant meeting ever, intended to include not just the glamorous but the entire scope of rudimentary reconstructive microsurgery. We know we must acquire all this knowledge to succeed today and tomorrow, but also need not to overlook the struggles and sacrifices our predecessors had to overcome. Too often the past is forgotten, only to then inefficiently be repeated. Today then, this will be a short story, a story of our past that must never be cast aside. The WSRM here today is a great international forum where we can then mingle with all of our colleagues to help dictate the present, but also define the future role of all specialities here where the ultimate goal is to help those most in need. This S&T lecture will just be a history story, subject to your interpretation. Enjoy!