Visit Report
First of all, I would like to convey my gratitude to the Department of Neurosurgery, University of Tsukuba Hospital (UTH), for their acceptance during my two weeks visit. Being kindly invited by Professor Matsumaru to come and learn, Professor Matsumura as the Head of Department and the Director of Hospital has been gracious enough to approve my visit. Though it was so short of a visit, I have learned so much from the colleagues in this department. I enjoyed the enlightening discussions during the morning radiology (Tuesday and Thursday) and pre-surgical conferences (Wednesday), the warm interactions with attending surgeons (Professor Ishikawa, Dr. Akutsu, Dr. Matsuda, Dr. Ito), clinical fellows (Dr. Matsumura, Dr. Kino, Dr. Hino), and residents (Dr. Sekine, Dr. Ishikawa, Dr. Iwamoto) during surgeries (attended five tumor surgeries and one coiling procedure for aneurysm), and the wonderful intraoperative MRI suite technology, which assures that only high-quality care is given to particularly brain tumor patients.
Secondly, I would like to thank Professor Sakae who has given his time to explain about the proton beam therapy - established here for more than 20 years ago - and to take me on an up-close-and-personal tour of the facility. This is the first time that I have ever heard of the technology, and I learned so much of its benefit and peculiarity over all others means of radiotherapy management.
Thirdly, I would like to thank Dr. Marushima and Dr. Kadone for giving time to accompany me in observing the HAL (hybrid assistive limb) device technology for the rehabilitation of patients with limb weakness due to stroke, spinal cord injury, etc. I had the rare opportunity to witness its implementation, which peaked my interest in its future application in my own country, Indonesia.
Last but not least, I would like to thank the International Medical Center team for their continuous support and assistance. Dr. Akiyama, Ms. Fukaya, Ms. Omachi, and Mr. Ishikawa have been very attentive even before my arrival at UTH and during my stay. It is only because of them that I am able to obtain this precious experience. To them, I convey my utmost respect.
All the best for everyone at UTH. Looking forward to learning again in this wonderful place of knowledge.