Warren M Rozen1, Jin Ye Yeo2
1Monash University, Victoria, Australia; 2ABS Editorial Office, AME Publishing Company
Correspondence to: Jin Ye Yeo. ABS Editorial Office, AME Publishing Company. Email: abs@amegroups.com
This interview can be cited as: Rozen WM, Yeo JY. Meeting the Editorial Board Member of ABS: Prof. Warren M Rozen. Ann Breast Surg. 2024. Available from: https://abs.amegroups.org/post/view/meeting-the-editorial-board-member-of-abs-prof-warren-m-rozen.
Expert introduction
Prof. Warren M Rozen (Figure 1) is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Melbourne, Australia. He combines clinical practice in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery with translational research at the University of Melbourne, Monash University and James Cook Universities. After completing his undergraduate medical and surgical training, Prof. Rozen went on to complete postgraduate studies in surgical anatomy, plastic and reconstructive surgery and a PhD in surgical anatomy. Prof. Rozen’s research interest is in clinical anatomy, with a focus on reconstructive flaps, preoperative vascular imaging and surgical anatomy.
Prof. Rozen has published over 700 peer-reviewed publications, has given over 200 national and international research presentations, and is on the editorial board of multiple international journals.
Figure 1 Prof. Warren M Rozen
Interview
ABS: How did your interest in surgical anatomy develop? What inspired you to subsequently pursue a career in plastic and reconstructive surgery?
Prof. Rozen: I always had an interest in the human body, and from a young age, I would seek out games like ‘operation’ and other anatomical-based games to occupy myself with. But my interest in surgical anatomy was sparked during early medical training when I became fascinated with even more intricate relationships between structures in the human body. Observing surgeries and understanding the critical role anatomy plays in surgical technique and outcomes deepened my appreciation for this field. My passion for reconstructive surgery specifically grew from witnessing the profound impact that surgery can have on patients' lives, restoring not just function but also self-esteem. This combination of anatomical knowledge and the desire to improve patient outcomes ultimately guided my decision to specialize in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
ABS: Your research interests focus on clinical anatomy, particularly in reconstructive flaps and preoperative vascular imaging. Can you highlight some of your recent works and findings that stood out to you? What impacts do they have on surgical practice?
Prof. Rozen: Throughout my higher degree research and postdoctoral research, I have been involved in research that examines the anatomical variations of the vascular supply to various flaps used in reconstructive surgery. One notable study utilized advanced imaging techniques to better delineate the vascular territories of these flaps, allowing for more precise preoperative planning, using a range of dissection, and different imaging modalities such as computed tomography angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and ultrasound (1). The findings from this research have the potential to enhance the safety and efficacy of flap surgery, reducing complication rates, and improving patient outcomes. This work underscores the importance of integrating anatomical knowledge with modern imaging techniques in surgical practice.
ABS: Given your extensive research on anatomical structures in reconstructive surgery, what are some significant gaps in our understanding of certain areas of anatomy that could further benefit surgical practices?
Prof. Rozen: Despite advances in our understanding of surgical anatomy, there remain significant gaps, particularly regarding the microanatomy of vascular structures in the context of reconstructive flaps. For instance, the precise variations in arterial and venous anatomy in increasingly small angiosomes and perforasomes, and in different populations are not fully mapped. With techniques such as flap thinning and flap modifications, an inadequate anatomical understanding can lead to complications during surgery. Additionally, there is a need for more research on the functional implications of these anatomical differences. Addressing these gaps through targeted studies could greatly enhance surgical planning and outcomes.
ABS: What are some significant changes in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery, and how have advancements in surgical anatomy and technology impacted patient outcomes?
Prof. Rozen: I think there have been significant changes in two main areas: the first is an increasing use of new technologies, and the other is the assessment of outcomes, with a greater emphasis on patient-reported outcome measures. Advancements in surgical anatomy, such as enhanced imaging technologies like 3D-modelling and augmented reality, can provide surgeons with a more comprehensive understanding of a patient's unique anatomy before surgery, and can be used for operative guidance, as well as in patient consent and patient education. By facilitating better preoperative planning and intraoperative navigation, these technologies can help mitigate risks and improve surgical outcomes.
ABS: As an educator, what role do you think modern surgical education should play in integrating anatomical knowledge, particularly in the context of reconstructive surgery?
Prof. Rozen: Modern surgical education should prioritize the integration of anatomical knowledge through a multidisciplinary approach. This can be achieved by incorporating advanced imaging techniques, virtual simulations, and cadaveric dissections into the curriculum for teaching, and also using models and modelling in the consent process and for operative guidance. By fostering an environment where anatomy is not only taught theoretically but also applied practically in surgical scenarios, we can better prepare future surgeons to navigate the complexities of reconstructive procedures. Emphasizing the relevance of anatomy in surgical decision-making is crucial for developing skilled and knowledgeable practitioners.
ABS: What advice do you have for young surgeons or medical students interested in pursuing plastic or reconstructive surgery?
Prof. Rozen: I think surgical training is a marathon, not a sprint. My advice to young surgeons and medical students would be to cultivate a strong foundation in both surgical technique and anatomical knowledge. Seek out opportunities for mentorship and hands-on experience in the field, whether through observerships or research projects. Additionally, remain curious and open to learning, as the field is constantly evolving. Engaging in multidisciplinary collaborations can also enrich your understanding and provide broader perspectives on patient care. Finally, always keep the patient's well-being at the front of their minds.
ABS: How has your experience been as an Editorial Board Member of ABS?
Prof. Rozen: Serving as an Editorial Board Member for ABS has been a rewarding experience. It has allowed me to contribute to the advancement of the field by reviewing and shaping high-quality research submissions. Collaborating with fellow experts and fostering the dissemination of knowledge has been particularly fulfilling. It also provides a platform to advocate for innovative research and clinical practices that can directly benefit the surgical community and, ultimately, our patients. Reviewing the research of others offers further insight and contributes to the field in a significant way.
ABS: As an Editorial Board Member, what are your aspirations for ABS?
Prof. Rozen: I am keen to contribute by enhancing the journal’s reputation as a leading platform for cutting-edge research in our field. We should promote the publication of diverse studies that reflect the evolving landscape of plastic and reconstructive surgery, including innovations in surgical techniques, outcomes research, and the integration of technology. Additionally, I hope to encourage contributions from both established and emerging researchers, fostering a collaborative environment that supports the growth of knowledge and practice in our specialty.
Reference
- Rozen WM, Stella DL, Bowden J, Taylor GI, Ashton MW. Advances in the pre-operative planning of deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps: magnetic resonance angiography. Microsurgery 2009;29(2):119-123.