Embarking on a New Chapter

    As an associate chief physician in the Department of Anesthesiology & OR at the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, I was honored to be selected by the China Scholarship Council’s “Special Program for Talent Training in Western China” after passing the IELTS examination. With gratitude and excitement, I embarked on a three-month visit to the Department of Anesthesiology at Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Switzerland, in 2024, under the mentorship of Prof. Patrick and Dr. Felix.

    CHUV stands as a hallmark of medical excellence, integrating clinical service, education, and research. Affiliated with the University of Lausanne, it consistently ranks among the world’s top hospitals and serves as a beacon for patient-centered, multidisciplinary, and humanistic healthcare.

Learning Under the Guidance of Masters

  During my exchange, I systematically studied several key areas: routine perioperative management, standardized emergency difficult airway protocols, and the implementation of Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in general surgery. The first month focused on familiarization with diagnostic guidelines and perioperative organ protection strategies. The second month emphasized practical engagement with emergency airway management, with observation and participation in the management of anticipated and unanticipated difficult airways. The third month deepened my understanding of ERAS applications in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries, including participation in preoperative evaluations and postoperative rehabilitation clinics.

    Each day offered panoramic exposure to Swiss anesthetic practices, with meticulous attention to detail at every stage — from preoperative assessment and anesthesia induction to intraoperative monitoring and postoperative care. The training provided profound insights into multidisciplinary teamwork, patient safety, and perioperative optimization.

Advanced Airway Management

  One of the pivotal areas of focus was advanced airway management. Under expert guidance, I practiced video laryngoscopy, fiberoptic intubation, and emergency airway rescue strategies.

   By being exposed to ERAS protocols across multiple specialties, I illuminated the transformative power of structured perioperative care. Witnessing firsthand the benefits of early mobilization, multimodal analgesia, and personalized nutrition planning deepened my appreciation for enhanced recovery strategies.

Academic Exchange and Professional Engagement

   Beyond clinical practice, I actively engaged in weekly departmental meetings, journal clubs, and interdisciplinary case discussions. On February 27, 2025, I delivered a thematic presentation to CHUV’s anesthesiology department and related teams, introducing the Chinese medical system and advancements in perioperative anesthesia. This event fostered valuable academic dialogue and strengthened Sino-Swiss professional ties.

Reflections on Excellence at CHUV

  CHUV’s organizational efficiency, educational rigor, and patient-centered philosophy profoundly influenced my professional values. The seamless integration of research and clinical practice emphasized the importance of innovation grounded in real-world healthcare needs.

   The hospital’s culture of respect for patients’ dignity, multilingual support systems, and emphasis on mental health underscored the humanistic approach at the core of Swiss medicine. Every aspect, from the design of silent zones to the presence of emergency response facilities, reflected meticulous care for patient safety and well-being.

Personal Growth and Cultural Enrichment

    Immersion in CHUV’s multicultural environment expanded my worldview. I learned to adapt swiftly, embrace diverse perspectives, and develop resilience in new settings. Experiencing Swiss punctuality, professionalism, and dedication to quality deepened my understanding of the values underpinning global healthcare excellence.

    The experience reaffirmed my commitment to lifelong learning, clinical innovation, and fostering compassionate patient care.

Heartfelt Gratitude

    I am profoundly grateful to Prof. Patrick and Dr. Felix for their exemplary mentorship and invaluable guidance. Their dedication, patience, and encouragement provided me with both clinical expertise and academic inspiration.

    I also extend my heartfelt thanks to Prof. Liu Yatao of the Department of Anesthesiology & OR and the leaders of the Office of Foreign Affairs at the First Hospital of Lanzhou University for their unwavering support, which enabled this transformative experience.

    My gratitude extends to all my colleagues and friends at CHUV, whose kindness, collaboration, and professionalism made this journey deeply enriching and unforgettable.

Looking to the Future

    Upon returning to China, I will integrate the advanced practices and humanistic philosophy gained during my visit into my clinical work. I plan to further explore how perioperative anesthesia strategies, including ERAS and organ protection protocols, influence cancer prognosis, and hope to establish sustained collaborative research with CHUV.

    Through continuous exchange and mutual learning, I believe we can build bridges of knowledge and innovation that transcend borders. In the spirit of shared excellence, let us continue striving to advance the art and science of medicine — together.

Source: Department of Anesthesiology & OR, Dr. Han Fangfang

Edited by the Office of Foreign Affairs