Editor's Notes:
Season 3 of the educational science program "Mr. Science" has started to air on Beijing Radio and Television Station (BRTV) every Tuesday at 21:05 since July 30, 2024. Each episode features a prominent Chinese scientist who imparts wisdom and experiences to a group of university and middle school students known as the "Future Team," fostering an engaging learning environment. Here are the stories of these distinguished scientists.
In the world of medicine, few names resonate with the same reverence and admiration as that of Guo Yinglu. Renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to urology, Guo has not only advanced medical science in China but has also touched countless lives with his compassion and dedication.
Guo's journey began in a remote mountainous region, where he faced significant hardships during his early years. The challenging conditions, which often left him without enough food, forged a resilient spirit and a strong foundation for his future endeavors. His educational path was fraught with obstacles, as he never completed primary or secondary school. Yet, his determination and thirst for knowledge led him to Peking University.
Inspired by his father, a physician, Guo Yinglu set his sights on becoming "a good person who can heal." This simple yet profound aspiration became the driving force behind his illustrious career. Guo's contributions to medicine are nothing short of revolutionary. He led the development of China's first extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy machine, a significant advancement in non-invasive treatment for kidney stones. Additionally, he authored the country's first comprehensive textbook on kidney transplantation, enriching the medical community with invaluable knowledge.
Guo's pioneering spirit didn't stop there. He was instrumental in introducing laparoscopic techniques to China, ushering in a new era of minimally invasive surgery in urology. This innovation not only improved patient outcomes but also positioned China as a leader in medical advancements.
During a recent visit to the hospital museum, Guo Yinglu and members of the "Future Team" encountered a fascinating artifact: a simple green onion. This seemingly ordinary vegetable holds historical significance; over 5,000 years ago, the renowned Tang Dynasty physician Sun Simiao documented the use of onion tubes for catheterization in his work. This early innovation exemplifies the spirit of exploration that has characterized Chinese medicine throughout history. Interestingly, many modern endoscopic techniques have evolved from these early methods inspired by the green onion, showcasing the ingenuity inherent in traditional Chinese practices.
During the 1991 Vienna International Conference, a silk gift crafted in the shape of a green onion made by Guo Yinglu was presented to the president of the International Endoscopy Society. This unique offering symbolized the historical contributions of Chinese medicine to urology and served as a bridge connecting China to the global medical community, allowing the world to recognize the relentless pursuit and dedication of Chinese physicians.
Despite his monumental achievements, Guo Yinglu remains a humble and approachable figure. Those who meet him are often struck by his warmth and kindness, qualities that have endeared him to colleagues and patients alike. At 94, he continues to visit Peking University First Hospital weekly, embodying the ideals of compassion and dedication that define a true healer.
Guo Yinglu's legacy is a testament to his unwavering passion for medicine and his commitment to the ideals of medical ethics. His story is an inspiration to future generations of medical professionals, reminding them of the profound impact that dedication, compassion, and resilience can have on advancing the field of medicine.