New Delhi, India | 30 May 2026
A Historic Milestone: The Inaugural Asian Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) Examination Successfully Concludes in New Delhi
The landscape of thoracic surgical education in Asia reached a historic milestone on 29–30 May 2026 with the successful completion of the inaugural Asian Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) Examination. Hosted at the prestigious Max Super Speciality Hospital in Saket, New Delhi, India, this landmark event represents a transformative step toward establishing a unified, internationally recognized benchmark for thoracic surgical training, assessment, and certification across the region.
More than an examination, the ABTS is a visionary initiative of the Asian Thoracic Academy (ATA). ATA is designed to strengthen regional collaboration, elevate clinical care standards, and cultivate the next generation of leaders in thoracic surgery.
Setting a New Standard for Surgical Excellence
The historic examination brought together a highly motivated, outstanding group of thoracic surgeons from diverse regions, including the United Kingdom, Jordan, Singapore, and various parts of India, all aspiring to become members of the first cohort of Fellows of the Asian Board of Thoracic Surgery.
Through a comprehensive written examination and a rigorous oral assessment process, candidates demonstrated exceptional clinical knowledge, sound surgical judgment, technical expertise, and a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning and patient-centered care. Their participation reflects a growing dedication within Asia and beyond to advancing thoracic surgery through standardized, high-quality education and training.
The success of this inaugural examination is a testament to the vision of the Asian Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS) examination leadership, including Prof. Sanghoon Jheon, Prof. Soon Sing Yang, Prof. Antonio Ramos, Prof. Naveed Alam, Prof. Ali Zamir Khan, Prof. Alan Sihoe, Prof. Punnarerk Thongcharoen, Prof. Akif Turna and Prof. Masahiro Tsubio, who have long championed the establishment of a rigorous, internationally respected certification pathway that promotes professional growth, mentorship, and collaboration among thoracic surgeons across diverse healthcare systems.
A Truly International Collaboration
The successful execution of an examination of this magnitude required remarkable cross-border collaboration across multiple countries and institutions. A distinguished panel of international and national examiners oversaw the assessment process, ensuring the highest standards of fairness, objectivity, and academic rigor.
The examination process was led by ABTS Chairman Prof. Antonio B. Ramos (Philippines), together with distinguished ABTS examiners Prof. Akif Turna (Türkiye) and Prof. Ali Zamir Khan (United Kingdom).
Serving as invited local guest examiners were Dr. Kamran Ali, Prof. Sabyasachi Bal, and Prof. Ravindra Kumar Dewan, whose collective expertise and dedication were instrumental in maintaining the integrity and high standards envisioned for the certification process.
Hosted by Max Super Speciality Hospital, the examination showcased the institution's commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the advancement of surgical education. The event was coordinated under the leadership of Dr. Kamran Ali, whose efforts, together with the organizing teams from ATA, ABTS, Max Healthcare, and MIME, ensured the smooth execution of both the written and oral examinations.
Looking Toward a Transformative Future
As the first cohort of ABTS-certified thoracic surgeons embarks on the next chapter of their professional journeys, this inaugural examination marks the beginning of a new era for thoracic surgical education in Asia.
More than a certification process, the ABTS represents a shared commitment to raising training standards, promoting continuous learning, and strengthening professional collaboration throughout the region. By bringing together candidates, educators, and leaders from multiple countries, the program has established a strong foundation for future educational initiatives, mentorship opportunities, and scientific exchange.
Through its commitment to excellence in training and assessment, the Asian Board of Thoracic Surgery is poised to make a lasting impact on the specialty while contributing to improved patient outcomes across Asia for generations to come.
The ATA and ABTS extend their heartfelt congratulations to all successful candidates and look forward to witnessing their contributions to the continued advancement of thoracic surgery throughout Asia and beyond.
The successful completion of the inaugural ABTS Examination stands as a defining achievement in the evolution of thoracic surgical education—one characterized by collaboration, excellence, and a shared vision for the specialty's future.
