Yasuko Maeda is ESCP's Assistant Treasurer. She is Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow and Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Glasgow.
Name: Yasuko Maeda
Current position and hospital: Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer, University of Glasgow. Also Editor-in-Chief, BMJ Surgery and Guideline Editor, United European Gastroenterology Journal
ESCP Executive Position: Assistant Treasurer
Main clinical and research interests: Colorectal surgery (IBD, proctology, pelvic floor), emergency general and trauma surgery. Research mostly matches my clinical practice, but curiosity always leads me to research all sorts of things within and outwith colorectal surgery. Recent projects include investigating how to make the best tempura batter from different flours (conclusion: inconclusive) and how to create Crohn’s stricture models using animal tissue and a hair straightener (resounding success, protocol established!).
What made you want to specialise in colorectal surgery?
When I was a young trainee, I had to assist in a difficult open low anterior resection. The boss said, "You have a nice small hand to put sutures deep in the pelvis." I felt that maybe I could make myself useful!
What is the best part of the job?
On one side, managing complex IBD, proctology, and pelvic floor issues allows for constant decision-making in theatre and clinic, whilst the fast-paced intensity of emergency general and trauma surgery at a high-volume centre gives me the privilege of quite literally saving lives in critical moments. There is never a dull day, and it genuinely keeps me hooked on what I do.
How long have you been involved in ESCP and what made you want to become involved?
I have not missed a meeting since 2004 when I first got involved. It has always been a unique meeting with a friendly environment where everyone can brainstorm together, whether young or old. It has been particularly supportive of young surgeons, and I want to continue contributing to nurturing that culture.
What do you value most about being involved in ESCP?
People from different countries and cultures getting together to share their thoughts and ideas. The friends and networks built over many years mean I have many buddies I can count on for both professional and life advice!
Tell us your best ESCP conference anecdote?
At one of the very first ESCP meetings I attended, we were having a proper sit-down lunch and the waiter asked if I would prefer red or white wine. Meanwhile, looking across the hall, I could see a very prominent professor (who shall remain unnamed for his honour and privacy!) casually browsing the posters at a distance while smoking a cigar. Times have certainly changed!
What would your one bit of advice for younger surgeons starting their career in colorectal surgery be?
Soak up everything - not only colorectal surgical knowledge and skills, but life perspectives, cultural values, and anything that comes across your path in life. Enjoy every moment, and be nice to others!