I was particularly impressed by his ability to perform skin incisions and osteotomies with remarkable precision, without preoperative skin markings and with minimal reference to intraoperative imaging’.

Why did you choose Dr. Piñal’s resident programme?
I had previously read Dr. del Piñal’s publications and knew that he was internationally renowned. In addition, Professor Koshima strongly recommended that I visit him if I ever had the opportunity to go to Spain. That recommendation made me firmly decide to observe his work in person.

How would you describe your experience from a professional point of view?
Dr. del Piñal’s surgical techniques were extremely refined. I was particularly struck by his ability to perform skin incisions and osteotomies with remarkable precision, without preoperative skin markings and with minimal reference to intraoperative imaging. It was evident that he had already formed a complete mental map of the entire procedure before making the first cut.

Furthermore, his new concept of CRPS challenges conventional thinking. I have heard that it will be featured in the next edition of Green’s Operative Hand Surgery, and I believe it has the potential to become a new standard among hand surgeons in Japan as well.

How was your personal interaction with Dr Piñal?
Even during informal dinners, Dr. del Piñal was warm and approachable. One phrase in particular left a lasting impression on me: ‘I am not a farmer, I am an explorer’.

Those words reflect his tireless spirit to challenge new frontiers, regardless of age or status. It was truly inspiring.

Could you share some comments about the rest of the staff, including surgeons, anaesthetists, therapists and administration?
All the staff members were very supportive and willing to answer my questions with great attention. The operating theatre was well organised and I felt a great professionalism from the whole team. Even the administrative staff were incredibly smart and helpful.

What has your social activity been like outside the consultation with the team?
Including this visit, I have had the pleasure of having drinks with Dr. Sanchez Ruas on five occasions since we were in the U.S. I was very happy to continue this relationship.
He is not only very friendly, but also a lot of fun, always livening up the atmosphere. I hope to see him again at the IFSSH or in Japan.

Madrid, personal impressions of the city, places not to be missed, tips for new residents…
Madrid is a captivating city that perfectly combines history and culture. It is also very safe and easy to get around, thanks to its well-developed metro network.
The seafood and wine at the restaurant Dr. del Piñal took me to were absolutely exceptional.

Anything else you would like to add?
This visit provided me with more than mere observation: it provided me with profound learning and inspiration. Not only did I gain technical knowledge, but I also learned a great deal philosophically.
Dr. Piñal’s spirit of exploration is something I hope to gradually integrate into myself. I hope to visit him again in the future.
Although I may never reach Dr. del Piñal’s heights of mastery, I will continue to train hard in the hope of getting a little closer.
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