Last week, the Duke Orthopaedic Hand Division proudly hosted five distinguished fellows courtesy of the International Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand (IFSSH). These fellows, representing diverse corners of the globe, brought a wealth of knowledge, perspective, and passion to the field of hand surgery, enriching the collaborative environment fostered by the division.
Established in 1966, the IFSSH serves as a global hub for advancing the study and practice of hand surgery. With the mission to coordinate activities, promote knowledge exchange, and encourage international collaboration, the federation plays a pivotal role in uniting experts and disseminating innovative practices. Through initiatives such as fellowship programs, IFSSH strives to enhance education, research, and accessibility to hand surgery worldwide.
This esteemed group of fellows—Dr. Krishna Priya Das (Bangladesh), Dr. Minh Vo Hoang (Vietnam), Dr. Ignacio Rellan (Argentina), Dr. Caroline Sena (Brazil), and Dr. Takuya Tsumura (Japan)—spent a productive week engaging with the division. Their time at Duke focused on observing cutting-edge techniques, sharing their insights, and building professional relationships that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their careers and the field of hand surgery.
Throughout the week, the fellows participated in hands-on sessions, insightful discussions, and lectures led by Duke Orthopaedic Hand Division experts. Each fellow brought unique expertise, enhancing the collaborative spirit at the heart of the IFSSH’s vision. This exchange of ideas underscored the federation’s chief purposes: fostering worldwide cooperation, improving education and research, and increasing opportunities for learning and innovation.
The Duke Orthopaedic Hand Division’s commitment to hosting international fellows aligns perfectly with the IFSSH’s goal of widening the opportunities for study and observation across countries. By sharing resources and expertise, both entities strive to advance hand surgery practices and address the socio-economic impact of hand-related disorders globally.
The week concluded with a celebration of accomplishments and the fellows’ contributions. Each participant left Duke equipped with new knowledge, perspectives, and professional connections that will shape the future of their work.
Dr. Krishna Priya Das, Dr. Minh Vo Hoang, Dr. Ignacio Rellan, Dr. Caroline Sena, and Dr. Takuya Tsumura exemplify the excellence and dedication driving hand surgery's progress as a specialty. Their time at Duke underscores the value of international collaboration in advancing healthcare and improving lives.
As the fellowship program continues, Duke Orthopaedic Hand Division remains committed to supporting global education and innovation in hand surgery, proudly contributing to the IFSSH’s legacy of excellence.