Surgical trainees from University Hospital Hairmyres (UHH) presented 11 trainee-led projects at the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland International Surgical Congress, held in Brighton from 12 to 14 May.
All projects came from the UHH surgical department and focused on benign biliary surgery — the care of non-cancer gallbladder and bile duct conditions, including gallstones and bile duct stones. These are common conditions which can cause pain, infection, jaundice and repeat hospital admissions when treatment is delayed.
The work reflected the department’s commitment to using audit, research and service evaluation to improve patient care. The projects examined practical ways to support timely treatment, improve surgical pathways and strengthen outcomes for patients across NHS Lanarkshire.
The presentations were delivered by trainees, with consultant supervision from Mr Khurram Khan, consultant upper gastrointestinal surgeon at UHH. The group prepared carefully, presented with confidence and contributed to discussion with surgical colleagues from across the United Kingdom and internationally.
Mr Khan said: “The credit belongs to the trainees. They showed professionalism, preparation and a clear commitment to improving care for patients with gallstone and bile duct stone disease. They represented University Hospital Hairmyres and NHS Lanarkshire exceptionally well.”
The achievement highlights the value of trainee-led clinical improvement in a busy surgical service. It also demonstrates how education, mentorship and research can come together to benefit patients and support the next generation of surgeons.
Picture: surgical trainees with Mr Khurram Khan (third right) at the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland International Surgical Congress 2026
