Prof. Isao Koshima: "Pushing Boundaries" – A "Giants in Plastic Surgery" Interview

In this "Giants in Plastic Surgery" episode of the PRS Global Open Deep Cuts Podcast, Professor Isao Koshima shares the inspiring story of his journey into medicine and his rise to become an innovator in plastic surgery techniques. Driven by family illness, he pursued medical school and later conducted rigorous private training to develop his skills in microsurgery, facilitating early exposure to advanced procedures. He discusses developing breakthroughs like perforator flaps, super microsurgery, and now nanosurgery. Beyond his pioneering surgical work, Prof. Koshima reveals how he maintains balance with family life and interests like martial arts and samurai history. In this fascinating conversation, he provides insight into his desire to provide patients not just physical treatment but mental satisfaction. An accomplished surgeon who still makes time for what matters, Prof. Koshima delivers useful perspective. 

Read a recent classic PRS Global Open article by Professor Koshima and co-authors, “Technical Tips for Anastomosis of 0.2-mm Diameter Vessels during Lymphatic Venous Anastomosis”: https://bit.ly/GOXDC_Koshima  

Professor Isao Koshima is a world-renowned pioneer in reconstructive microsurgery and lymphatic surgery. Currently, he serves as President of the World Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery, Honorary President of the International Society of Lymphology, Executive Director of the Japanese Society of Lymphology, and Contributing Professor at Hiroshima University Hospital.

Over his illustrious career, Prof. Koshima has made groundbreaking contributions to the fields of perforator flap surgery, supermicrosurgery, nerve flap transfers, and lymphatic microsurgery. He conceptualized the use of perforator flaps in reconstruction, revolutionizing plastic surgery. His innovations include pioneering the DIEP, ALT, and chimera flaps for complex head and neck reconstruction. Known for establishing supermicrovascular anastomosis techniques, he achieved the first sub-millimeter 0.3 mm anastomoses. Recently, he accomplished nanomicrosurgery with 30-micron needles and nanomicro video systems.

With over 500 publications on supermicrosurgery and lymphedema, Prof. Koshima's research has earned international acclaim. He has received prestigious honors including the Harry J. Buncke Lectureship from the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery and the Maliniac Lectureship from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Dedicated to advancing reconstructive techniques globally, Prof. Koshima has shared his expertise through physician training programs worldwide. His pioneering work has restored form and function for countless patients. Prof. Koshima's innovations continue to push the boundaries of possibility in reconstructive microsurgery.

Your host, Dr. Vimal Gokani, is a senior Specialty Registrar in plastic surgery in London, England. 

Your producer & editor, Dr. George Adigbli, is an Academic Clinical Lecturer in plastic surgery in Oxford, England. 

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