The 42nd International Seminar: Leading Spine Surgeons from Japan, Germany, and Korea Gather at Shinshu University

The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Shinshu University School of Medicine has been actively engaged in clinical practice and research in spine surgery. As a result, it has produced numerous outstanding medical achievements that are at the forefront of the field in Japan and internationally.

At the initiative of Prof. Jun Takahashi, the 42nd International Seminar was held, featuring two leading spine surgeons from our partner institutions: Dresden University of Technology in Germany and the Catholic University of Korea. Dr Amir Zolal from Germany gave a presentation on his research regarding the effect of vertebral motion during cervical spine surgery on the accuracy of surgical navigation. Dr. Joonghyun Ahn from Korea introduced a novel approach for differentiating metastatic vertebral fractures using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and deep learning (DL). Dr Tetsuhiko Mimura (Specially Appointed Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Shinshu University) provided an overview of recent advances in neuroprotective strategies for spinal cord injury. Dr Masashi Uehara (Associate Professor in the same department) shared the latest developments in navigation-guided cervical spine surgery. Both presentations offered clear and insightful perspectives on cutting-edge clinical research and surgical techniques.

The seminar was attended by approximately 40 participants, including graduate and undergraduate students, as well as physicians, who listened intently to the presentations. Lively discussions took place at the buffet party held afterwards.

The seminar provided a valuable opportunity for participants to learn about the latest research and technologies in spine surgery. We hope that opportunities for international exchange will continue to grow, and that clinical practice and research in spinal surgery conducted by physicians and researchers at Shinshu University, under the leadership of Prof. Takahashi, will continue to expand internationally.

Naoki Tanaka
Professor,
Department of Global Medical Research Promotion International Relations Office Shinshu University School of Medicine