Episode Title: Microsurgery Maestro, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (#28)
Guest: Professor Fu-Chan Wei, MD; Microsurgeon | Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
Podcast: the DIEP end
Episode Summary:
In this special episode of the DIEP end, Dr. Saїd Azoury and Dr. Hank Davis sit down with Professor Fu-Chan Wei, a pioneering figure whose contributions have fundamentally shaped reconstructive microsurgery. Known internationally for refining the vascularized fibula flap technique for jaw reconstruction and his leadership in head and neck microsurgery, Professor Wei offers personal insights into his extraordinary journey—from early mentorship under Dr. Samuel Noordhoff to becoming an influential global figure in reconstructive surgery.
Listeners will gain rare insights into Professor Wei’s unique philosophy of patient care, surgical education, and innovation. This episode explores how he built Chang Gung Memorial Hospital into a world-renowned microsurgical center, emphasizing meticulous preoperative planning, robust resident and fellow training programs, and commitment to surgical excellence.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
● How Professor Wei unexpectedly made microsurgery the central focus of his career
● The origins and global impact of vascularized fibula flap techniques for jaw reconstruction
● Why rigorous preoperative planning and literature review are essential for patient safety
● Insights into building one of the world's premier microsurgery training programs
● The critical role Taiwan’s healthcare evolution played in microsurgery’s growth
● Key lessons for surgical trainees on innovation, humility, and continuous learning
Quotable Moments:
"Innovation requires deep mastery. You can't innovate without truly understanding the basics."
"Quantity is the mother of quality—volume and specialization lead to surgical excellence."
"Microsurgery is not just about technical skills; it's a meticulous process starting long before the operating room."
SEO Keywords: Fu-Chan Wei podcast, microsurgery pioneer, vascularized fibula flap, jaw reconstruction, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, microsurgical training, reconstructive surgery innovations, surgical education, patient safety in surgery, DIEP End podcast, Taiwanese plastic surgery
Follow Professor Fu-Chan Wei:
● Learn more: Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
Follow The DIEP End:
● Instagram & YouTube: @thediependpodcast
● Spotify & Apple Podcasts: The DIEP End
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