“I am Inheriting World-Class Expertise in Minimally Invasive Gastric Cancer Surgery”

▲ Mohammad Mousa, Clinical Fellow from the Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery at Asan Medical Center

I am currently undergoing training in minimally invasive gastric cancer surgery and metabolic /bariatric surgery in the Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery at Asan Medical Center. In Saudi Arabia, I served as Chief Medical Officer Deputy of King Abdulaziz Hospital and specialized in laparoscopic general surgery. During my training here, I have encountered a wide range of gastric cancer cases involving anatomical variations in blood vessels and lymph nodes, which has been an invaluable experience and asset to me as a surgeon.

#TrainingInLaparoscopicSurgery #EyesFullOfFocus🔥

Saudi Arabia has a low incidence of gastric cancer

Unlike Korea and Japan, Saudi Arabia has a relatively low incidence of gastric cancer. As a result, the number of surgeries is quite low, and surgical techniques are not as advanced. Unlike other cancers, minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic or robotic surgery are rarely used for gastric cancer treatment. Asan Medical Center performs one out of every ten gastric cancer surgeries in Korea and was the first in the world to reach 10,000 laparoscopic gastric cancer procedures. That’s why I make a point to absorb every detail the professors share. I am also learning their advanced techniques in metabolic /bariatric surgery, which are rooted in Asan Medical Center’s extensive experience with gastric surgery.

A colleague’s recommendation led me to Asan Medical Center.

One of my colleagues from Saudi Arabia had previously trained at Asan Medical Center. When I was considering where to pursue my fellowship, he told me all about the strengths of Asan Medical Center such as the large scale of the hospital, the diversity of surgical cases, and the internationally renowned faculty. He said, “If you have the opportunity, you must go to Asan Medical Center.”
I didn’t hesitate. Now that I’ve actually come and experienced the clinical outcomes, systems, and overall environment at Asan Medical Center, I fully understand why he recommended it so strongly.

#SeoulTurnedFrozen #BuiltASnowman❄️

In Korea, making reservations is essential. 

I’ve learned that if you want to dine at a popular restaurant or stay at a nice hotel in Korea, you have to make reservations well in advance. There were a few times I tried to book something just two or three days ahead and was surprised to find everything fully booked! (laughs) I suppose it makes sense because Seoul is one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

Another thing that really impressed me about life in Korea is the incredible level of public safety. I am currently living here with my wife and our two sons, aged seven and four, and we haven’t encountered a single dangerous situation. It’s been a very safe and reassuring environment for my family.

#WithProfKim #ForeverGrateful

#InternationalMedicalFellowsNight #OneWithMyColleague📷

Asan Medical Center has the most advanced hospital systems I’ve ever seen.

From patient care and clinical workflows to infection control and security, the Asan Medical Center’s systems are truly impressive. What stood out to me the most was the Asan Medical Center’s outstanding educational infrastructure. I frequently used the Simulation Center to practice laparoscopic surgery so much that I was once told I might be the most frequent visitor! (laughs) I also spent a lot of time at the Robotic Surgery Center to train with the surgical robot. When I return to Saudi Arabia, I plan to create an environment of supportive learning environment where young surgeons can train freely and confidently.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to my mentor, Professor Beom Su Kim, and to Professors Moon-Won Yoo, Chung Sik Gong, Chang Seok Ko, and Sa-Hong Min for their dedicated support throughout my training.