The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust is excited to announce its participation in the upcoming Annual Scientific Conference 2024 in Gateshead. This event, a central event in the emergency medical community, offers both in-person and virtual access, ensuring that EM healthcare professionals and researchers can engage with the latest developments in emergency medicine and aortic dissection research.
The ASES Study
A highlight of the conference will be the presentation of findings from The ASES Study: Enhancing Diagnosis of Acute Aortic Syndrome, led by Professor Steve Goodacre from the University of Sheffield. This study, funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), aims to improve diagnostic accuracy for acute aortic syndrome (AAS), a critical condition that is often misdiagnosed due to its similarity to other causes of chest pain.
The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust has played a key role in ensuring that the voices of patients and families were integral to this research. The study focuses on determining which diagnostic tests are most effective in identifying patients who may need a CT scan for suspected AAS. Every year, over 300,000 individuals visit emergency departments due to chest pain, yet only a small proportion are diagnosed with AAS. This makes the study’s outcomes vital for improving early and accurate diagnosis, ultimately saving lives.
Event Highlights
In addition to the ASES Study, the conference will offer a wide array of insightful presentations from experts in emergency medicine. Some key sessions include:
- Opportunities to Get Involved with Research. Professor Matt Reed from EMERGE, Edinburgh, and the RCEM Research Committee will discuss how healthcare professionals can actively participate in ongoing research that shapes the future of emergency care.
- Thoracic Trauma. A Deep Dive: Dr Vivek Chhabra will provide a thorough exploration of thoracic trauma, a critical area of emergency care where rapid, informed decisions can make a life-saving difference.
- Shaping the Culture of PoCUS Training in Emergency Departments: Dr Qazi Zia Ullah and Dr Amr Elhelaly from Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust will delve into the evolving role of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) in emergency departments, discussing how it is transforming diagnosis and treatment protocols.
- Optimising Shared Decision-Making for Chest Pain Patients: Professor Richard Body will examine strategies to enhance shared decision-making between patients and clinicians, ensuring that patients with chest pain receive care tailored to their individual needs and circumstances.
About the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM)
The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM), headquartered in the UK, plays a pivotal role in advancing emergency medicine. The College is responsible for setting standards of training, administering exams, and supporting the professional development of over 12,000 emergency medicine clinicians globally. RCEM also works closely with policymakers and health authorities, advocating for high-quality patient care and providing expert advice on health policy matters. By setting and maintaining high standards, RCEM ensures that emergency medicine clinicians are equipped to deliver the best possible care.
This year’s Annual Scientific Conference promises to be an invaluable platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering collaboration, and shaping the future of emergency medicine. By attending, participants will not only gain insight into cutting-edge research like the ASES Study but also engage in critical discussions on improving patient outcomes.
