Dr.James in the Microsurgery course.

I’d like to review a course I recently attended, called Basic Periodontal & Implant Microsurgery, organized by the faculty from the Periodontology Department of Chiang Mai University and Chulalongkorn University.

In 2019, I had the opportunity to attend a 4-month short course called "How is Periodontics Done?" at the Periodontology Department of Chulalongkorn University, which provided me with foundational knowledge in periodontics and dental implants.

Since then, I’ve continued my studies in dental implants up to the present day. I don't do much soft tissue work, but I focus more on All-on-4/6 implant cases.

When I saw an announcement from the Periodontology Department about the Microsurgery course, which would involve using a microscope for surgery, I immediately signed up.

After waiting eagerly, I attended the workshop, which was led by Professor Lung and Professor Som-O, along with other faculty members who closely supervised every step of the hands-on sessions.

The content began with the basics of using the microscope, making periodontic and implant procedures much more detailed and achieving a higher level of precision and quality.

We then practiced suturing using microsurgery equipment such as micro-tissue pliers, micro-needle holders (Castroviejo), and other specialized microsurgery tools. These techniques must be learned from experts to be used correctly.

Additionally, we practiced suturing on various fruits and performing a Free Gingival Graft, focusing on precision when harvesting and preparing the recipient site. At one point, I felt quite overwhelmed and had to take a breather with some inhaler that the instructor had kindly provided! 

Once I got more comfortable, I started to enjoy the hands-on experience. This training introduced new knowledge for me, making it all the more exciting.

Toward the end of the course, there was training on implant placement and bone grafting in the sinus (Sinus Lift), which also involved the use of a microscope for surgery. This helped me improve my daily work, making it even better and more effective.

The benefits of this course are tremendous it will undoubtedly help my patients achieve better treatment outcomes with greater predictability.