“I Will Bring Advanced Single Port Robotic Surgery Expertise to Saudi Arabia”

 

▲ Fellow Mohammed Nabil Alalawi from Saudi Arabia of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Asan Medical Center.

 

I am a urogynecologist at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University in Saudi Arabia. Several colleagues who had previously completed training in Korea strongly recommended Asan Medical Center. When I looked it up online, I was amazed to see that the hospital ranks among the world’s best in numerous medical specialties. Outstanding physicians, an exceptional volume of highly complex surgeries, and excellent treatment outcomes all convinced me that this was the ideal place to further develop my skills as a doctor.

 

That confidence led me to board a flight to Korea. I am delighted to have the opportunity to work alongside medical professionals who are deeply committed to treating critically ill patients and advancing the highest standards of care.

 

#Posing for a commemorative photo with Professor Ji Hoon Kim (left) of the Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery at Asan Medical Center, who led the robotic surgery training session.

 

Asan Medical Center Is the Best Place to Learn Robotic Surgery!

My specialty is minimally invasive surgery for gynecologic conditions, which is one of the main reasons I chose Asan Medical Center for my training. Asan Medical Center is recognized globally for its outstanding robotic surgery program, both in terms of surgical volume and complexity. I was particularly impressed to see single port robotic surgery, one of the most advanced surgical techniques available today, being performed routinely. Watching these procedures inspired me to contribute to the adoption and advancement of such cutting edge surgical techniques in Saudi Arabia.

 

I took my first step toward that goal at the Robotic Surgery Training Center. From online preparatory courses and hands on equipment training to animal model practice sessions and specialty specific programs, the curriculum is exceptionally well structured. The comprehensive training helped me build a strong foundation in robotic surgery within a relatively short period of time.

 

#Posing for a photo with the view from the prayer room on the 19th floor of the East Building in the background.

 

I Have a Special Hideaway on the 19th Floor of the East Building!

Every day at Asan Medical Center, I am reminded that its commitment extends beyond patients to international medical professionals as well. I have been impressed not only by its well organized clinical systems and state of the art medical equipment, but also by the convenience of having everything in one place. Within Asan Medical Center, you can take care of meals, shopping, banking, and even get a haircut.

 

Among all these facilities, my favorite place is the Muslim prayer room on the 19th floor of the East Building. I suspect that even some hospital staff may not realize there is a 19th floor there (laughs). After prayer, I often spend a few moments enjoying the beautiful view of the Han River. The peaceful scenery naturally helps me clear my mind and recharge. Amid a busy training schedule, it has become my own special retreat within Asan Medical Center.

 

#A photo at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Doesn't the royal dragon robe suit me quite well? 😄

 

I’ve Fallen in Love with Exploring Korea!

On my days off, I try to spend as much time as possible with my family, who came to Korea with me. We have been exploring every corner of Seoul and creating unforgettable memories together. Wearing traditional hanbok while visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace was a wonderful experience, and the panoramic view of Seoul from the observation deck of Lotte World Tower was absolutely breathtaking.

 

One of our most memorable discoveries was Korea’s kids cafés, which felt like an entirely new world to my children (laughs). We are also enjoying the opportunity to explore Korean cuisine and discover new favorite dishes. Recently, we visited Incheon, and we are already planning trips to Busan and Jeju Island in the near future. My whole family has truly fallen under Korea’s charm.

 

#Thank you to my mentor, Professor Sa Ra Lee!

 

I Am Committed to Learning and Applying Everything My Professor Teaches Me

I have been deeply impressed by the exceptional surgical skills, warm personality, and generosity of my mentor, Professor Sa Ra Lee from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Asan Medical Center. She is always willing to share her knowledge and experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from her. Her guidance in both open surgery and minimally invasive surgical techniques has provided me with valuable insights into a wide range of treatment approaches.

 

I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the physicians, nurses, and operating room staff whose outstanding teamwork makes high quality patient care possible every day. Until I complete my fellowship next August, I will continue to study diligently and make the most of this invaluable experience. My goal is to return to Saudi Arabia equipped with new knowledge and skills that will help advance medical care and improve the quality of life for patients in my country.