The Department of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy at NTT Medical Center Tokyo is led by Dr. Ken Ohata, one of Japan's most distinguished endoscopy specialists, performing a wide range of endoscopic examinations and procedures.
Physicians from around the world visit to learn the "Ohata Method." Trainees carry these skills back to their home institutions and continue to stay connected through regular exchanges and knowledge-sharing opportunities after completing the program.
Beyond therapeutic endoscopy, the department also focuses on endoscopic diagnosis using magnifying endoscopy, EndoCytoscopy, and endoscopic ultrasound. Applications from international fellows are welcome at any time.
NTT Medical Center Tokyo →
| Department | Staff Count | Members |
|---|---|---|
| GI Endoscopists | 13 | Dr. Minato, Dr. Ito, Dr. Furuta, Dr. Iida, Dr. Yamamoto, Dr. Kanamori, Dr. Kanamori |
| Visiting Supervisors | 5 | Dr. Tsuji, Dr. Chiba, Dr. Ono Dr. Ito (T.), Dr. Kimoto |
| Nursing Staff | 13 | Head Nurse: Fuyo Yoshiko Supervisor: Akiko Mizutani |
| Endoscopy Technicians | 3 | Chief: Takuya Shiga, Hirom Tanaka, Taichi Wakabayashi |
- Observation of endoscopic diagnosis and procedures
- Participation in diagnostic endoscopy conferences
- Lectures by specialists (ESD strategy, troubleshooting, traction methods, magnifying endoscopy, colonoscopy insertion, etc.)
- ESD hands-on training using porcine GI model (held biweekly)
- Observation of endoscopic diagnosis and procedures
- Participation in diagnostic endoscopy conferences
- Expert lectures (ESD, traction methods, magnifying endoscopy, colonoscopy insertion, etc.)
- ESD hands-on training using porcine GI model (biweekly)
- Clinical ESD practice after obtaining a temporary medical license
- Academic research and conference presentations (JDDW, DDW, UEGW, APDW, etc.)
It was a great honor to train as a fellow under the guidance of Dr. Ohata and his exceptional team. I experienced a wide variety of ESD cases from the upper to lower GI tract and was deeply impressed by the level of skill and constant innovation.
I learned that beyond the technical difficulty of ESD itself, every case requires an individualized approach and planning — making it even more profound and complex. The precision of the screening program also left a strong impression on me.
Beyond technical learning, meeting mentors who became friends, and experiencing Japan's rich culture and warm-hearted people became irreplaceable memories. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Ohata, all the physicians, technicians, and nursing staff.
I am truly honored to have had the opportunity to train in the gastrointestinal endoscopy program at NTT Medical Center Tokyo under Dr. Ohata and his team. I can say without hesitation that it was the greatest learning experience of my career.
I gained skills across a wide spectrum — colonoscopy insertion, abdominal compression, animal model use, pre-ESD magnifying endoscopy diagnosis, and EMR and ESD. The pursuit of excellence, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to execute complex procedures were all deeply inspiring.
Back home, I have applied the techniques, ideas, and concepts learned here to clinical practice in New Zealand, and have successfully performed ESD. I strongly recommend this program to anyone interested in advancing their endoscopy skills.
Ever since reading Dr. Ohata's books "Ohata Style" and "The Text ESD," I had always dreamed of training at this institution. Seeing Dr. Ohata's technique in person felt like a magic show — I was overwhelmed by his skill and passion.
I observed a wide variety of ESD cases, from the colon and upper GI to technically demanding sites such as the duodenum and pharynx. The team atmosphere was like a large family, with everyone supporting each other.
After this training, I gained the confidence to establish an ESD service at my home institution. I have now performed 10 cases. I am proud to be part of Dr. Ohata's global community of followers.
For Those Wishing to Join the Program
Please prepare the following information and contact us via the inquiry form.
We also welcome general inquiries without a commitment to apply.