Report on Visitation to Prof. Ryosuke Kuroda at Kobe University for the ISAKOS Young
Investigator Mentorship Program
The ISAKOS Young Investigator Mentorship Program at the Deptartment of Orthopaedics at Kobe University, under Prof Ryosuke Kuroda, had been an unparalleled experience. This incredible journey started with my arrival in Kobe on September 14, 2024. The next day being a public holiday, I was well received by the department, at a barbecue at Nunobiki.
Prof. Kuroda had been an excellent host, great teacher and a very kind and gentle person. We
had detailed discussions on my proposed project, which made me understand in more detail
the biology of cartilage repair and management of these injuries.
The basic sciences laboratory of the department gave me insights into protocols of cell
cultures and maintenance of musculoskeletal tissues. In the two weeks I spent there I was
also involved in academic activities of the department, grand rounds and case presentations. I
also got a chance to present my research on peroneus longus tendon graft and assessment of
outcomes of rotator cuff tears to the department. I could also get exposure to management of
patients in outpatient clinics in the University hospital and other associated hospitals.
The department also extends services for the management of sports injuries for professional
sports teams. I could visit the training and rehabilitation facilities for sports persons, which
was an experience in itself.
This interaction has created a forum for the continuous exchange of ideas that will stay with
us for years to come. Throughout this trip, I had the privilege of meeting extraordinary
surgeons who showcased the very best of their practices and skills. They warmly welcomed
us making us feel like a part of their team. I am immensely grateful to them for their efforts
in making our fellowship an unforgettable experience.
In particular, it was extremely helpful to discuss and share research ideas with Dr. Takehiko
Matsushita. It was an experience to observe him operate. I am also grateful to Dr. Yuta
Nakanishi, who not only hosted me well but also showed me around the excellent training
and rehabilitation facility of Kobelco Kobe Steelers. I am grateful to Dr Daisuke Araki for
showing me the state-of-the-art Hyogo Rehabilitation Center Hospital, and I also got a
chance to observe him in his outpatient clinic. I am immensely thankful to Dr. Noriyuki
Kanzaki, Dr. Yutaka Mifune, and Dr. Naoki Nakano for their display of exceptional surgical
skills in their operating rooms. Their understanding of the subject made the complex
procedures appear very simple.
I will always remain thankful to Dr. Ryo Okada and Dr. Shin Yoshida, who had always been
around me while I was there and took good care of me.
Overall, the experience was an unparalleled mix of academics, clinics and fun. It was a time
well enjoyed and its memories will surely be well cherished in future. I am grateful to
ISAKOS to give me this opportunity and to Prof. Ryosuke Kuroda and his whole team to
allow me into their department, share their knowledge and skill and taking care of me while I
was there.