“I Hope to Apply World Class Anesthesia Expertise to Liver Transplantation in the Philippines”

▲ Christine Poblador, Clinical Instructor from the Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery at Asan Medical Center.

I completed my residency training at Makati Medical Center in the Philippines and have worked in general surgery anesthesia for the past six years. I first learned about Asan Medical Center through my husband. He trained at the Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery several years ago. I was told that Asan Medical Center is a global leader in organ transplantation, achieving outstanding clinical and research outcomes. Recognizing this as a valuable opportunity to systematically gain hands-on experience in high complexity transplant anesthesia, I did not hesitate to choose Korea as the next step in my professional journey.

#With my outstanding colleagues in the operating room. I am second from the left.

“I am privileged to work alongside colleagues who demonstrate exceptional expertise and clinical proficiency.”

Given the inherent complexity of liver transplantation, meticulous anesthetic management and continuous, close monitoring of the patient’s condition are essential. I am gaining hands-on experience with advanced monitoring modalities, including the use of pulmonary artery catheters and transesophageal echocardiography, as well as the application of sophisticated indices such as the Bispectral Index (BIS) and the Analgesia Nociception Index (ANI) during high-risk surgical procedures.

Early in my fellowship, I encountered a case requiring massive transfusion, during which more than 100 units of packed red blood cells were administered. Even in such a critical situation, every member of the operating room team remained composed and moved in seamless coordination. It was a defining moment that allowed me to fully appreciate the professionalism and clinical excellence of my colleagues at Asan Medical Center.”

#With fellow international scholars in the operating room lounge ✌

“An Operating Room Equipped with Its Own Cafeteria and Lounge Is Simply the Best!”

Asan Medical Center is nearly three times larger than the hospital where I previously worked. I am continually impressed by its remarkable scale and highly organized system. I spend most of my day in the operating room, and one of the greatest benefits is having a cafeteria right inside the surgical suite. It truly feels like a luxury. Even on the busiest days, I can enjoy a well-balanced meal without leaving the area, which makes a significant difference.

Whenever I have a short break, I visit the lounge to chat with fellow trainees from different countries. Even brief conversations have led to meaningful friendships, and I still keep in touch with some colleagues who have already returned to their home countries.

#In front of the War Memorial in Yongsan with my husband

“Reflecting on the Meaningful Ties Between Korea and the Philippines”

I have visited Korea several times since 2019. One of my most memorable experiences was wearing a hanbok while exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village. Seeing in person the traditional attire and historic sites I had only watched in Korean dramas felt as though I had traveled back several centuries.

I also visited the War Memorial of Korea and the Korean Demilitarized Zone. I learned that the Philippines participated in the Korean War as part of the United Nations forces, and that this history laid the foundation for the enduring alliance between our two countries. As a Filipino physician now training in Korea, that shared history makes this experience even more meaningful.”

#Thank you always, Professor Gyu-Sam Hwang!

“I Aspire to Keep Challenging Myself and Continue Growing”

My time at Asan Medical Center represents a journey of stepping beyond familiar surroundings to embrace new challenges and professional growth. During my training, I have learned safe and systematic anesthesia protocols, advanced monitoring techniques, and precise clinical decision-making. For the remainder of my fellowship, I will continue striving to deepen my knowledge and skills so that I can apply what I have learned here to liver transplantation practice in the Philippines.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my mentor, Professor Gyu-Sam Hwang of the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, as well as Professors Jun-Gol Song, In-Gu Jun, Kyoung-Sun Kim, and Hyemi Kwon, who have provided invaluable guidance and support throughout my training.