Neurosurgery at the Fujita Health University began in 1972 with Dr. Tetsuo Kanno. In 1973, he was joined by Dr. Kazuhiro Katada and in the year 1976, an independent neurosurgery department was established with Dr. Kanno as the Chief of Neurosurgery. Under his guidance the department continued to grow and by 1978, a neurosurgical residency program recognised by the Japanese Board of Neurosurgery was established. Integration of laboratory research and clinical experience is the hallmark of this program. The current philosophy is directed towards subspecialization and academic training. This article provides a brief overview of the rapid development of a Neurosurgical Centre to reach international acclaim under the guidance of Prof. Tetsuo Kanno 1).
Prof. Kanno developed modern neurosurgery in Asia with Fujita Health University being the centre for teaching and educating young scientists and professionals dealing with nervous system surgery. Thanks to Prof. Kanno’s efforts, over 3.5 thousand young doctors from Asian countries had an opportunity to broaden their knowledge at 10 science and training conferences.
His particular merit lies in the fact that he promoted pioneering methods of surgical treatment of diseases of the brain and the spinal cord with advanced microsurgical and minimally invasive techniques. His scientific interests include techniques of neurosurgical procedures, especially in areas of the greatest difficulty, diagnosis and treatment of cerebral haematomas, surgery of gliomas, treatment of hydrocephalus, applying neurostimulation in patients in a chronic vegetative state. His unique anatomical and clinical studies on the importance of the venous system in the brain initiated a change in the surgical strategy in many cases.
Prof. Kanno’s achievements in modern neurosurgery are known and recognised around the world. His original methods of treatment of coma patients, especially stimulation of posterior cords, give tangible effects and provide a chance to the patients.
The scientific achievements of Prof. Tetsuo Kanno have won him the greatest recognition among the global neurosurgical community, which is reflected in the title of the Honorary Chairman of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS). He chairs the Japanese Congress of Brain Tumour Surgery, which was created on his initiative, and he is the Chairman of the Japanese International Medical Cooperation Organisation (JIMCO). Professor Kanno has organised and chaired many prestigious scientific congresses where methods and results of surgical treatment of strokes and achievements of young Asian neurosurgeons have been presented.
He has received many important awards and distinctions, e.g.: Founder’s Laurel ACNS, Dokusoichiri award at Fujita Health University and the Medical Achievements award. His accomplishments have also won him the title of Honorary Professor of the Fujita Health University.