Prabhakar Kore, chairman emeritus, KLE Society, and chancellor of KAHER & KLE Technological University, inaugurated the 13th annual conference of the Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India (AOMSI) here on Saturday.

The Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, KLE VK IDS, organised the conference under the theme “Evolving Concepts and Clinical Excellence”. Over 280 delegates participated in the event, said a release.

Dr. Kore said that oral cancer was prevalent in north Karnataka and the Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons had a very important part in treating such cases.

He said the KLE SS Shivanagi Cancer Hospital had advanced treatment for such cases. “A few decades ago, there were few Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons in north Karnataka. But today we have some of the best surgeons in the region,” Dr. Kore said.

Vishwanath M. Pattanshetti , Registrar, KAHER, highlighted the vital role of the Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons in restoring the face which was an important part of the body.

KAOSMI secretary Girish Gowda emphasised the role of the surgeons in restoring the facial form of the patient. He presented the annual report of the KAOSMI.

Venkatesh Anehosur, president, KAOSMI, spoke on initiatives to strengthen the academic activities and surgical skills of post-graduates.

Ashish Gupta, president, AOSMI, discussed about the social security measures for the Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons and cancer treatment for the unaffordable.

Kanteshwari I.K., principal, KLE VKIDS, said the institution had produced a large quantity of highly qualified dental professionals.

Shridhar Baliga, organising chairman, delivered the welcome address. Sanjay Rao, Aarti Neeli Padmaraj Hegde, Manu Prasad, and others were present.