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Incidental liver and pancreatic lesions: Triage, diagnosis, and referral

This session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to assess incidental liver and pancreatic lesions, determining which require specialist referral.

Adam Bartlett and Michael Chu will cover:

  • The different types of lesions commonly encountered in primary care.
  • Key factors in assessing these findings, including patient history, risk factors, and clinical presentation.
  • Guidance on when to refer to a specialist for further evaluation.

Additionally, the session will address the likelihood of malignancy, considering variables such as age and family history. You will also gain practical insights into which initial investigations can be conducted in primary care before specialist consultation, optimizing patient care and referral pathways.

Presenter

Adam Bartlett

General, HPB, Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery

A/Prof Bartlett is an experienced general surgeon specialising in the comprehensive management of conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, stomach and spleen, including cancer. He collaborates with a multidisciplinary team and is skilled in different surgical approaches, including robotic-assisted surgeries.

Constant learning and training are important to him; he has international experience and expertise.

Adam runs both a public and private practice. He is based in Auckland but provides consultations and support in Queenstown and engages in pro bono surgery in Rarotonga annually.

Presenter

Michael Chu

General, HPB and Laparoscopic Surgeon

Dr. Michael Chu is a highly trained General, HPB (Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary) and Laparoscopic Surgeon based in Auckland. With a deep commitment to his field, Dr. Chu boasts a rich education background, including training in Australia and New Zealand. As the only surgeon in New Zealand with post-Fellowship sub-specialisation training in both liver/pancreas/biliary surgery and renal transplant surgery, his surgical repertoire includes both open and laparoscopic (key-hole) procedures. His proficiency covers liver resection surgeries, pancreatic surgeries, and advanced laparoscopic surgeries. The surgical approach will be tailored to provide the best outcome for his patient’s specific needs.

Michael is noted for his meticulous approach to patient care, ensuring that all his patients receive comprehensive, tailored treatment plans. His multilingual abilities in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, further allow him to connect and communicate effectively with a diverse patient demographic, embodying a patient-centric approach to healthcare. He also actively participates in teaching and is involved in various research projects, demonstrating a commitment to advancing surgical techniques and patient outcomes.