Dr Rahila Essani is a board-certified Colorectal and General Surgeon with over two decades of experience specialising in minimally invasive and robotic colorectal surgery. A national and internationally recognised leader, Dr Essani has refined and advanced techniques such as transanal and transvaginal specimen extraction, intracorporeal anastomosis, and natural orifice surgery.

She currently serves as Program Director at a Robotic Total Practice Observation Site, overseeing education and training in robotic colorectal surgery. Dr Essani is a sought-after speaker at premier surgical conferences including SAGES, ASCRS, and SRS, and was a co-chair of the 2024 NOSCAR Summit.

A passionate advocate for surgical education and mentorship, she is dedicated to expanding access to robotic training and fostering equitable proctorship pathways, particularly for women surgeons. Her research focuses on AI-assisted surgical coaching, enhanced recovery protocols, and simulation-based training.

A/Prof Abraham Jacob graduated with honours from UTAS Medical School in 2007. He trained in General Surgery at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, specialising in trauma and transplant surgery. He became a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in 2015. A/Prof Jacob then pursued sub-specialty training in Colorectal Surgery through CSSANZ at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide and Fiona Stanley Hospital in Perth.

With a keen interest in minimally invasive techniques, A/Prof Jacob focuses on laparoscopic surgery, transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS), and da Vinci robotic colorectal surgery. He also possesses expertise in pelvic floor disorders and has received additional training in Sacral Nerve Modulation for fecal incontinence.

Originally from Melbourne and now based in Perth, A/Prof Jacob and his family have embraced the city’s way of life. A/Prof Jacob is dedicated to his profession, and he strives to provide excellent care while remaining at the forefront of advancements in his field.