Taiwan Spine Society

Letter to the Future of Spine Care

From Taiwan Spine Society to the Spine Professionals of 2065

Dear Colleagues of 2065,

Greetings from Taiwan in 2025! As we celebrate NASS's 40th anniversary, I write as President of the Taiwan Spine Society, reflecting on our remarkable journey.

Taiwan's Evolution (1992-2025)

Taiwan evolved from adopting international techniques to pioneering innovations influencing spine surgery worldwide. We've developed minimally invasive techniques including full endoscopic spine surgery for Asian populations, integrating traditional Chinese medicine with modern surgery.

In cervical spine surgery, we've mastered complex multi-level OPLL using modified laminoplasty and combined approaches. For upper cervical malformations, we've established precise planning systems and safe techniques.

In spinal deformity correction, we've achieved breakthroughs treating Asian-specific sagittal imbalance using refined three-column osteotomy and vertebral column resection.

Current Breakthroughs (2025)

AI predicts surgical outcomes with remarkable accuracy. 3D printing creates patient-specific implants. Complex cervical surgery achieves unprecedented precision through advanced neuromonitoring and navigation.

Modern deformity correction addresses severe scoliosis exceeding 100-degree Cobb angles and extreme sagittal imbalance over 20cm through multi-level 3D correction. Robot-assisted surgery ensures safe instrumentation despite anatomical variations.

Our regenerative medicine research using mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes shows promise for revolutionizing non-surgical spine care.

Predictions for 2065

I envision biological solutions replacing mechanical fusion, AI predicting spinal problems decades early, gene therapy preventing hereditary conditions, and smart implants providing real-time monitoring.

Wisdom for Future Professionals

Never lose the human element—doctor-patient relationships remain healing's cornerstone. Embrace continuous learning and international collaboration. Remember prevention surpasses perfect surgery. Respect anatomy—deep understanding remains indispensable.

Taiwan's Continuing Contribution

Taiwan continues contributing through our East-West medical bridge, technological innovations, and research commitment. Our experience in complex cervical surgery and severe deformity correction will benefit international colleagues.

Message of Hope

Despite current challenges, your dedication will continue improving countless lives. I imagine complex surgeries have become simple and safe, achieving personalized treatment for every patient. Thank you for continuing our mission. Though separated by four decades, we're united in alleviating suffering and advancing spine science.

TWSS President Wen-Tien Wu

Taiwan Spine Society

Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital

Tzu Chi University

Taiwan, 2025

"The most complex surgeries require the simplest intentions – to heal, relieve suffering, and restore function."