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Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine has organised the 25th International Conference (KVAC2024) to celebrate advancements in veterinary medicine and the university’s 60th anniversary. This occasion brought lecturers, researchers, students, and animal health professionals together to discuss and explore the latest innovations.
Opening the event, Assoc Prof Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, MD, President of Khon Kaen University, highlighted the conference’s theme, “Artificial Intelligence and Innovations for Animal Health,” emphasising the university’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to address challenges in animal health.
Building on this theme, Prof Bandit Tengjaroensakul, DVM, PhD, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, elaborated on the rapid growth of AI and technology and their transformative impact on veterinary science. He noted, “AI, technology, and innovation are advancing at an unprecedented pace, significantly influencing learning and development in veterinary medicine. KVAC2024 serves as a crucial platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing experiences, and discovering technological solutions to animal health issues. We aim to foster collaboration in innovation development to enhance animal health and well-being.”
Prof Tengjaroensakul underlined the importance of these technologies and innovations in promoting global animal health. He stressed that these advancements are pivotal in promoting animal well-being, safeguarding human health, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. He highlighted that groundbreaking advancements in animal medicine have empowered veterinarians and researchers with powerful tools to diagnose and treat various ailments more effectively and compassionately.
For instance, he explained that high-precision imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), offer detailed insights into animals’ internal structures and organs, enabling early disease detection and prompt intervention. Additionally, genetic technologies have unveiled new possibilities for understanding animals’ genetic makeup, unlocking crucial information about their susceptibility to certain diseases and inherited conditions. This knowledge paves the way for targeted breeding programmes to improve animal populations’ overall health and resilience.
Furthermore, last year, Prof Tengjaroensakul discussed Thailand’s exploration of regenerative medicine, an emerging field in veterinary science. This field examines the potential of stem cells and tissue engineering to regenerate damaged tissues and organs in animals, providing new hope for those suffering from chronic or severe medical conditions. Beyond medical interventions, advanced technologies have also redefined animal raising and farming practices. Automated feeding systems, smart sensors, and precision agriculture have enhanced efficiency and sustainability in animal agriculture, optimising nutrition and environmental conditions for improved animal health and productivity.
Additionally, based on the OpenGov report, Assoc Prof Dr Anusak Kijtawornrat from the Department of Physiology at Chulalongkorn’s Faculty of Veterinary Science highlighted a significant breakthrough in veterinary development. In January 2024, his team successfully treated Mitral Valve Regurgitation (MVR) in a dog using a mitral clamp.
This minimally invasive surgical method, performed for the first time in Thailand, leaves a small wound and eliminates the need for an artificial heart or lung machine, contributing to quicker recovery and reduced costs for the owner. This successful implementation of the mitral clamp surgery serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the country’s veterinary community in providing the best possible care for animals.
Developing innovative technologies and methodologies in veterinary medicine is pivotal in enhancing animal health and well-being. The 25th International Conference (KVAC2024) hosted by Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine has successfully showcased the transformative impact of AI and other advanced technologies on veterinary science. The ongoing efforts in veterinary innovation and development exemplify Thailand’s commitment to advancing veterinary healthcare and improving the lives of animals.
KVAC2024 exemplified Thailand’s keen awareness of technological advancements in veterinary medicine. The conference showcased the significant role of digital technology in revolutionizing veterinary medicine, highlighting the potential for AI-driven solutions to improve animal care and health outcomes. The event underscored Khon Kaen University’s leadership in integrating advanced technology into veterinary science, paving the way for future innovations.
