2024 Student from TU Dresden:Clinical training at the Dept of Neurosurgery

Name: Lena Jochheim
Home Institution/ Country: TU Dresden/Germany
Year of university: 6th
Designated department at Shinshu University: Neurosurgery
Training Period: from November 18, 2024 - March 09, 2025
Training: Clinical training

1. What made you come train at Shinshu University School of Medicine and how did you find the School through your stay?
Japan has always deeply intrigued me - the harmonious balance between a calm way of life and a strong work ethic, the immense hospitality, and the cutting-edge medical technology and equipment. As a Blue Zone country with one of the highest life expectancies, I was particularly interested in experiencing its healthcare system firsthand and understanding the daily lives of its people.

The opportunity to complete a four-month traineeship in Japan greatly appealed to me, and I was fortunate that the partnership between TU Dresden and Shinshu University made this possible.

Shinshu University Hospital is a highly developed institution, both in terms of medical advancements and infrastructure. Its vast and complex layout made it easy to get lost at first! The medical school itself is academically demanding, yet I found the student-doctor relationship to be built on mutual respect and professionalism.

2. Please describe your training at host department/lab.
Each morning, a conference was held where the day's case was presented and thoroughly discussed. I was particularly impressed by the precision and level of detail in each case presentation. Additionally, the operating surgeon would meticulously illustrate the planned procedure, providing a clear visual representation of the surgical approach.

Surgical procedures were scheduled three days a week, while the remaining two days were dedicated to angiographies. A full ward round took place only once a week.

Throughout my training, I primarily observed, which allowed me to gain valuable insights into the structured workflow, the decision-making process, and the perioperative planning and treatment.

Moreover, I had the opportunity to write a case report on medulla oblongata compression syndrome, which provided me with deeper insights into neurosurgical diseases, their clinical presentation, and the corresponding surgical interventions. This experience allowed me to explore not only the pathophysiology and symptomatology of the condition but also the advanced techniques employed by the Japanese neurosurgical department. Throughout the process, I received good guidance and support, which made working on the case report both educational and rewarding.

3. Please list what you have gained from your experiences through the training at Shinshu University and the stay in Matsumoto, Japan.
During my time at Shinshu University, I gained valuable insights into the Japanese healthcare system and work culture. Training abroad naturally leads to reflection, encouraging comparisons between one's own national healthcare system and the structures and practices observed in another country. I was particularly impressed by the high quality of care in Japan, as well as the professionalism and discipline that define medical practice here. The Japanese approach fosters a calm and respectful hospital atmosphere - something I had never experienced to such an extent before. Unlike the often bustling environments of European hospitals, the wards and operating rooms in Japan maintained an almost serene quietness, which contributed to a highly focused and efficient working atmosphere.

Beyond the hospital, Matsumoto itself was a wonderful place to live. It is a vibrant city, best known for its stunning original castle and its breathtaking backdrop of the Japanese Alps. The charming cafés and picturesque streets in the city center made it a great place to explore and unwind. Despite its liveliness, Matsumoto retains a peaceful, small-city charm, offering a perfect balance between activity and relaxation.

One of the highlights of my stay was the crisp, sunny winter, which made for lovely days outdoors despite the cold. Additionally, Matsumoto serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Nagano region, away from the heavy tourist crowds that typically follow Japan's famous Golden Route. This provided a more authentic and immersive experience of Japan's natural beauty and culture.

4. How do you think you can apply those experiences to your future career?
This experience has broadened my perspective and will help me become a more culturally aware and adaptable physician. Patients from different cultural and ethical backgrounds often have distinct ways of coping with illness, and understanding these differences is essential for providing patient-centered care. Additionally, cultural and genetic factors influence disease prevalence, which is important to consider in diagnostics and treatment planning.

One of the most striking contrasts I observed was the difference in hospital atmosphere. While the German healthcare system is highly efficient, hospital life can often feel rushed and stressful. In Japan, despite the demanding workload, I noticed that healthcare workers tend to approach their work with a calm and composed attitude. There is a strong sense of mutual respect among colleagues, and complaining is far less common. This fosters a more harmonious and focused working environment.

Going forward, I hope to incorporate these insights into my own practice--both by maintaining a mindful and respectful approach in high-pressure situations and by being more attentive to the cultural needs of my patients.

5. Advice to those who are interested in studying at Shinshu University.
My experience at Shinshu University was made much smoother thanks to the support of the international office and the local medical students. From the beginning, they were incredibly welcoming and always willing to help, making the organisational aspects of the exchange far more manageable.

One of the most valuable aspects of my training was the eagerness of the doctors to teach. They were highly engaged in medical education and took the time to explain procedures and clinical cases in detail. While the language barrier can be challenging at times, I always found at least one doctor who translated key discussions during conferences or provided valuable insights during surgeries. This made a huge difference in my learning experience.

If you are considering studying at Shinshu University but are hesitant due to language concerns, don't let that stop you. While knowing some basic Japanese is certainly helpful, the willingness of faculty and colleagues to support international students ensures that you can still gain a lot from the experience. Being open, proactive, and willing to learn will help you make the most of your time here!