Participation in the 2026 KSES – TSSES Travelling Fellowship program

The opportunity to be selected as a Turkish Traveling Exchange Fellow was a great honor made possible through the close academic partnership between the Korean Shoulder and Elbow Society (KSES) and the Turkish Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery (TSSES). Unlike a conventional observership at a single institution, this fellowship offered a unique chance to visit leading shoulder and elbow centers throughout Türkiye within a short period, allowing participants to learn the strengths and expertise of multiple institutions and renowned surgeons.

Our journey took us to major cities including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Eskisehir, Kirsehir, and Adana, where we visited several university hospitals and specialized shoulder centers. We had the privilege of observing complex surgical procedures performed by distinguished experts, including arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Observing these procedures firsthand provided valuable insights into institution-specific surgical techniques, operating room setups, and instrumentation preferences.

At each hospital, academic conferences and discussions were held, providing opportunities to compare and exchange perspectives on clinical decision-making and treatment strategies between Korea and Türkiye. As the culmination of the fellowship, we attended the annual TSSES Congress. The meeting showcased the high academic standards of Turkish shoulder and elbow surgery, closely aligned with global trends represented by organizations such as the European Society for Surgery of the Shoulder and the Elbow (SECEC). It also offered valuable opportunities to interact with internationally recognized experts in the field.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Traveling Fellowship was the strong sense of camaraderie developed throughout the intensive schedule. While the days were filled with academic activities and surgical observations, the evenings provided opportunities to experience Turkish culture and hospitality through welcoming social gatherings. These experiences fostered meaningful friendships and professional relationships that will undoubtedly continue well into the future.

The knowledge and experience gained through this fellowship—including advanced surgical techniques, clinical insights, and exposure to international academic environments—will serve as a valuable foundation for enhancing both patient care and future research endeavors. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Korean Shoulder and Elbow Society (KSES) for providing this invaluable opportunity and to the Turkish Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery (TSSES) for their outstanding hospitality and meticulous organization throughout the program.

Jung Han Kim
Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, Korea