李苑盈（Li Yuanying）さん

Introduction
My four week clinical rotation at Hyogo Medical University from July 14 August 8, 2025 offered an exceptional opportunity to immerse myself in Japan's renowned healthcare system. Through structured training in three specialized departments, I gained not only advanced technical skills but also profound insights into a medical culture that harmonizes technological innovation with humanistic patient care. This experience has fundamentally enriched my professional perspective and clinical aspirations.

Genetics Laboratory: Precision in Molecular Techniques
In the genetics laboratory, under the guidance of Professors Imaisaka and Wang, I engaged deeply with Japan’s rigorous approach to molecular medicine. I performed Sanger sequencing and multiplex PCR with an emphasis on reproducibility and accuracy, adopting protocols such as the “triple check” system for reagent preparation and equipment calibration. Significantly, I contributed to a project analyzing KRAS mutations in colorectal cancer samples, focusing on detecting low frequency variants (<1% allele frequency) through optimized bioinformatics workflows. This experience underscored the critical importance of methodological precision in translational research a lesson I plan to apply in Shantou’s ongoing studies on cancer biomarkers.

Lower GI Surgery: Robotics and Radical Precision
My time in the Department of Lower Gastrointestinal Surgery revealed a surgical philosophy centered on meticulous technique and interdisciplinary collaboration. I observed several da Vinci robot assisted procedures, including low anterior resection (LAR) and transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME). What stood out was the team’s dedication to achieving optimal oncological outcomes without compromising functional preservation. For example, in a challenging TaTME case, the surgeons spent over four hours ensuring clear circumferential margins and protecting autonomic nerves. I also participated in discussions on the controversial D3 lymphadenectomy, where Professor Kimura presented compelling data from Japanese trials showing significant survival benefits in node positive rectal cancer. This evidence based approach to surgical decision making left a deep impression.

Respiratory Medicine: Technical Excellence and Humanism
In the Division of Respiratory Medicine, I refined my bronchoscopy skills through simulation training and clinical observation. Using the Olympus bronchoscopy simulator, I practiced navigating to subsegmental bronchi and performing bronchoalveolar lavage, achieving a 95% success rate under supervision. Beyond technical training, I was inspired by the department’s patient centered ethos. Professor Kijima modeled empathetic communication, such as using intentional pauses to encourage elderly patients to share their symptoms more fully. I also learned about innovative biomarker guided treatment strategies, such as periostin driven biologic therapy for severe asthma. These experiences highlighted how technological advances and compassionate care can synergize to improve outcomes.

Interdisciplinary Connections
A major highlight of this rotation was witnessing how seamlessly Japanese medicine integrates disciplines. For instance, molecular data from the genetics lab directly informed surgical planning in lower GI oncology. Surgical techniques like indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence were echoed in respiratory diagnostics for evaluating lung perfusion. Even quality management approaches——such as standardized checklists from the lab——were adapted for use in the bronchoscopy suite. This interconnectedness not only improves patient care but also fosters a collaborative culture that I hope to emulate in my future career.

Conclusion: Lessons for a Future Career
My rotation at Hyogo Medical University has been transformative, both professionally and personally. The institution’s motto, “Knowledge for Humanity,” captures its commitment to pairing technical excellence with ethical, patient--first care. I leave with three key lessons: tthe value of precision and reproducibility in both research and clinical practice; the importance of patience and deliberate technique in achieving optimal outcomes; the power of interdisciplinary collaboration to drive innovation. I extend my sincere gratitude to all my mentors——especially Professors Imaisaka, Kimura, and Kijima——for their guidance and generosity. This experience has profoundly shaped my clinical mindset and reaffirmed my commitment to lifelong learning and patient--centered innovation.