SEOUL NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Global Fellowship Experience at Seoul National University Hospital

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and your professional background?

My name is Ricardo Nogueira. I am a general surgeon working in the Head and Neck Surgery department in Lisbon at the Portuguese Oncology Institute (Instituto Português de Oncologia). My clinical practice focuses on oncologic surgery involving the skin, oral cavity, thyroid, and parathyroid glands.

2.How did you first learn about Seoul National University Hospital, and what motivated you to choose SNUH for your fellowship training? 

I first became aware of Seoul National University Hospital through the large number of scientific publications produced in the field of minimally invasive thyroid surgery. While researching this area, I came across the Endocrine Surgery Unit at SNUH. Later, after speaking with a colleague who had previously completed a fellowship at SNUH in another General Surgery department, I realized that the institution was very open to receiving international surgeons. This encouraged me to apply for the fellowship.

3. What has been the most valuable experience during your fellowship at SNUH—and what are the key things you hope to take away from this training?

My fellowship at SNUH has been extremely valuable in many ways. I had the opportunity to observe highly skilled surgeons with exceptional technical ability performing advanced thyroid procedures. Observing their surgical approach, precision, and workflow was an enriching learning experience.

4. In your view, what distinguishes SNUH from other institutions in terms of clinical training or patient care?

I found SNUH to be a highly organized institution with well-established clinical protocols. The operating room workflow is efficient and precise, allowing procedures to be performed with great rigor and coordination. The infrastructure is excellent, and the quality of patient care is clearly a top priority.

5. How would you describe the mentorship and academic atmosphere here?

From the very first day, I felt warmly welcomed. Everything was extremely well organized for my arrival. Logistically, the process of gaining access to the operating room and clinical areas, as well as obtaining the necessary credentials, was very smooth. It is clear that SNUH has a strong tradition of hosting international surgeons, and beyond that, there is a genuine enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and collaborating with visitors.

6. What is the most important thing you have gained from your time at SNUH (e.g. knowledge, skills, perspective, network)?

My main objective was to gain exposure to robotic and endoscopic techniques, particularly minimally invasive approaches in thyroid surgery and remote-access cervical lymph node dissections. During my fellowship, I had the opportunity to observe numerous robotic procedures (not only at the main SNUH hospital but also at the SNUH Bundang campus). This was probably the most valuable part of my experience. In addition to observing robotic surgery, I had the chance to participate in discussions with the surgeons about their ongoing scientific research and clinical innovations, which was extremely inspiring.

7. What has been the most memorable moment in Korea, either inside or outside the hospital?

One of the most memorable aspects of my stay was building close relationships with the members of the Endocrine Surgery Unit. We had many opportunities to discuss both scientific and non-scientific topics, sharing experiences related to surgery as well as life outside the hospital. Social gatherings such as dinners allowed us to connect on a more personal level, which greatly enriched my overall experience.

8. What message would you like to share with future international fellows considering SNUH?

I would like to emphasize how generous the surgeons in this department are in sharing their knowledge. The team is open, inclusive, and extremely supportive of visiting fellows. Their professionalism and remarkable technical expertise are truly inspiring.

9. Please feel free to add any other thoughts or experiences you would like to share with our readers:

If you are looking for a place that combines strong scientific activity with outstanding surgical expertise, SNUH is an excellent choice. You will be warmly welcomed, and you will learn a great deal. I would strongly encourage anyone interested in endocrine or minimally invasive surgery to consider this opportunity.