Professor Wu Xiening

    In the 1920s, Shanghai was already a dazzling pearl shining on the eastern coastline. Along the Bund, towering clock towers, classical bank buildings, modern hotels, and commercial buildings formed a magnificent skyline. The Huangpu River rippled gently, lapping against the docks on both sides, with sails dotting the water and ships of all sizes shuttling back and forth, bringing goods and people from all over the world. The river breeze carried the scent of the sea and the bustle of the city, along with the hopes and dreams of countless people for the future. 

    In the alleys of the old city, a different scene of everyday life unfolded. Narrow lanes were lined with tightly packed homes, exuding a warm atmosphere of daily life. In the morning, as sunlight filtered through the alleys onto the bluestone pavement, the busy figures of neighbors were reflected between the typical white walls and black tiles of Jiangnan architecture. The calls of vendors, the chatter of women, and the laughter of children intertwined, creating a vibrant tableau of daily life. 

    "My father was born into an overseas Chinese family in Honolulu and returned to China at the age of 14 to attend middle school in Nanjing. After graduating, he benefited from the Boxer Indemnity Scholarship and went to Columbia University in the United States to study architecture. After completing his studies, Wu Zhenying, along with a group of like-minded intellectuals, co-founded the Shanghai and China Architects Society and launched the 'Chinese Architecture' magazine. He actively participated in the design of important buildings such as the former Shanghai Municipal Government and Jiangwan Stadium." 

    Wu Xiening's mother, Li Huiying, was the youngest daughter of Li Yunshu, a prominent figure in China's modern industrial and commercial world, while his grandfather was a pioneer who worked alongside Dr. Sun Yat-sen to usher in a new era. Despite this, by the end of the Republic of China era, the family's finances had become strained. The siblings supported and encouraged each other, and later, they all achieved notable success. 

    "My younger sister became a top pianist in China, and another sister became a university professor of foreign languages. I chose to study medicine because my uncle and uncle-in-law were renowned specialists in general surgery and otolaryngology in Shanghai at the time. The strong medical atmosphere in my family led me to aspire to become a skilled doctor from a young age." 

    In the turbulent environment of the 1930s and 1940s, marked by frequent wars and social upheaval, studying medicine was not just a personal aspiration for Wu Xiening but also a responsibility bestowed by the times. Amidst the chaos, the scars of disease and war were everywhere, and Wu Xiening understood the critical importance of a doctor's role during that period. 

    In 1945, at the age of 18, Wu Xiening had just graduated from high school at the affiliated school of the University of Shanghai. He set his sights on the best private medical school in Shanghai—St. John's University. 

    At the time, St. John's University was renowned nationwide for its academic excellence and was the first institution of higher education in China to offer full English instruction. Its medical program was particularly famous for its difficulty and lengthy curriculum. The medical school followed a seven-year program, including two years of pre-medical studies and five years of formal medical training, culminating in a Doctor of Medicine degree. 

    Reflecting on his experience of being admitted to St. John's University Medical School, Wu Xiening felt deeply moved. Gaining entry to such a prestigious institution was no easy feat, as many aspiring students sought to enroll in this top-tier university. In that environment, Wu Xiening devoted most of his time to his studies, often forgetting to eat and sleep in his pursuit of knowledge. 

    The entrance exams for St. John's University were exceptionally rigorous, covering a broad range of natural sciences and placing particularly high demands on candidates' English proficiency. After passing through multiple rounds of selection, Wu Xiening finally stood out in the fierce competition and successfully gained admission to the medical school. This was not only a recognition of his hard work but also the first step in realizing his dream. Looking back on those years of struggle, Wu Xiening always felt grateful, as it was those difficulties and challenges that made him stronger and deepened his love for medicine. 

    After entering St. John's University Medical School, Wu Xiening recalled, "At that time, the most famous medical schools in China were St. John's University and Peking Union Medical College. They were the earliest institutions to fully align with Western medical education. Unlike today, all instruction was in English, which posed a significant challenge for many students. The academic system was extremely strict, and failing meant immediate expulsion. To graduate successfully, every student had to give their all and put in more effort than most." 

    During the first two years of pre-medical studies, Wu Xiening immersed himself in his studies, delving into foundational science courses such as physics, chemistry, and biology. This stage was crucial for building a solid medical foundation and the starting point for developing medical thinking. Wu Xiening understood that to become a competent doctor, one needed a deep theoretical knowledge base. He often listened attentively to professors' lectures in class and spent time alone after class, repeatedly pondering difficult points until he fully understood them. At the same time, he actively participated in academic activities both on and off campus, striving to broaden his horizons and enrich his knowledge system. 

    After transitioning to the third year of medical school, Wu Xiening entered a more specialized phase of medical learning. During this period, he delved into core medical courses such as human anatomy, pathology, and physiology. The study of human anatomy was a turning point, as it was the first time Wu Xiening directly confronted the complexity and fragility of life. He entered the anatomy lab with a sense of reverence and personally participated in dissections, gradually mastering the intricacies of human structure. Anatomy not only familiarized him with every system and organ of the human body but also made him truly aware of the responsibility borne by a doctor—every detail of life was crucial, and the doctor's task was to put forth the greatest effort in every detail. 

    As his studies progressed, Wu Xiening began to engage in clinical practice. This period marked an important transition from theory to practice. At St. John's University Affiliated Hospital, Wu Xiening followed experienced professors, participating in ward rounds and case discussions, observing and learning their diagnostic and treatment methods. In clinical practice, he faced patients for the first time, personally experiencing how every decision a doctor made directly impacted a patient's health and life. This sense of responsibility constantly reminded him that medicine was not just a science but also an art centered on humanity.

    The challenges and trials of clinical practice honed Wu Xiening's medical skills and gradually shaped him into a more responsible and mission-driven doctor. At the same time, Wu Xiening deeply felt that the vast field of medicine was full of unknown challenges. Every complex case and every medical problem fueled his passion for deeper exploration. 

    "During those grand rounds, professors would question and guide us on the spot based on the patient's condition. Every time I participated in such rounds, I would prepare extensively by consulting a lot of materials. The professors' questions never had standard answers; they were more about testing our clinical thinking and judgment," he said. 

    Wu Xiening's diligence and effort earned the recognition of his professors and set him apart from his peers. Whenever he encountered complex cases or difficult academic questions, he would tirelessly research until he found the answers. This steadfast academic pursuit not only advanced his medical skills but also gradually shaped his thinking, making him a competent doctor. 

    After graduation, Wu Xiening was first assigned to Shanghai First Labor Hospital (the predecessor of Jing'an District Central Hospital), where he diligently honed his skills and stood out due to his exceptional performance. In 1956, he was transferred to Shanghai First People's Hospital. There, Wu Xiening found fertile ground for his growth and remained true to his初心, witnessing the rapid evolution of this top-tier hospital. 

    The growth of any medical professional is inseparable from the guidance of mentors. After joining Shanghai First People's Hospital, Wu Xiening encountered a pivotal mentor in his career—Professor Le Wenzhao. 

    Professor Le Wenzhao had studied at Harvard University for many years and, after returning to China, initially worked in Beijing. However, driven by a deep affection for his hometown, he eventually returned to Shanghai and became a key figure at Shanghai First People's Hospital. At the age of 34, Professor Le was appointed as a professor, renowned for his exceptional medical skills and rigorous academic approach, earning the respect of his peers and patients alike. Under Professor Le's meticulous guidance, Wu Xiening gradually matured into an independent and accomplished doctor. 

    "Professor Le Wenzhao was not only a medical authority but also my guiding light," Wu Xiening recalled. "From him, I learned how to integrate advanced Western medical knowledge with the realities of China to provide the best treatment for patients." 

    During his time at the hospital, Wu Xiening also met another doctor who had a profound impact on him—Professor Jiang Shaoji. As a renowned medical expert at Renji Hospital, Professor Jiang was a leading figure in the field of gastroenterology in China. At the time, Professor Jiang recognized Wu Xiening as an exceptional student and took him on as his first protégé. 

    "Professor Jiang Shaoji was an extraordinary individual, and I was his first student," Wu Xiening said. "His knowledge was vast, and he had unique insights into the research and treatment of digestive system diseases. He was also highly strategic in developing the discipline." Under Professor Jiang's careful tutelage, Wu Xiening built a solid foundation in multiple areas, becoming a standout in the field. 

    Professor Jiang Shaoji's mentor, Professor Huang Mingxin, a prominent figure in internal medicine, was also a highly respected medical predecessor to Wu Xiening. Professor Huang, a central consulting expert at the time, was renowned for his outstanding contributions to internal medicine, particularly in the treatment of schistosomiasis. He developed a unique treatment method that significantly reduced patient mortality and saved countless lives. Under Professor Huang's guidance, Wu Xiening learned cutting-edge medical techniques and a meticulous approach to scientific research. 

    "Looking back, I was fortunate to learn from the most famous teachers, from whom I gained a wealth of medical knowledge and high ethical standards. These experiences solidified my determination to become a skilled doctor, and I hope that through my efforts, I can help more people overcome illness."

    The outstanding medical achievements of Wu Xiening are inseparable from his unique methods and philosophies in medicine. He summarized his medical approach into three key principles: the Marxist theory of contradiction, the integration of Chinese and Western medicine, and the guidance of philosophical thought. Deeply influenced by Marxist ideology, especially the theory of contradiction, Wu Xiening applied this principle extensively in his medical practice. "In clinical work, I always focus on identifying the primary contradiction, address secondary contradictions, and promote the transformation of contradictions, concentrating resources to solve key issues first," he often described his treatment strategy. The theory of contradiction emphasizes the conflicting nature of development and the relationship between primary and secondary contradictions. In clinical practice, Wu Xiening applied this theory masterfully. "Every case is unique," Wu Xiening explained. "We must identify the primary contradiction in the patient's condition and focus our efforts on resolving it." Over his many years of medical practice, his clear thinking and sharp judgment often allowed him to quickly pinpoint the core issues in a patient's condition, enabling him to devise highly effective treatment plans. This approach not only significantly improved diagnostic and treatment efficiency but also reduced misdiagnoses and mistreatments. 

    Secondly, Wu Xiening emphasized the integration of Chinese and Western medicine as his second key principle. He believed that both Chinese and Western medicine have their strengths and weaknesses, and their combination could complement each other, leading to better treatment outcomes. "The strength of Chinese medicine lies in its holistic approach and personalized treatment, while Western medicine excels in precise technical methods and systematic diagnostic and treatment protocols," Wu Xiening said. In his practice, he often tailored treatments based on the patient's specific condition, integrating modern diagnostic and therapeutic methods from Western medicine with the holistic approach of Chinese medicine. For example, in treating chronic digestive system diseases, he would use Chinese herbal medicine to regulate the patient's constitution while incorporating effective Western medications, resulting in comprehensive and lasting improvements in the patient's condition. This integrated approach benefited many patients and provided valuable clinical experience for the medical community.

    Mastering Western medicine and incorporating philosophical thought was the foundation of Wu Xiening's achievements. He stated, "The guidance of philosophical thought was a crucial foundation for my later accomplishments." Wu Xiening integrated philosophical concepts such as the relationship between the part and the whole, the general and the specific, the comprehensive and the one-sided, and dialectics and metaphysics into his medical practice. During his tenure at Shanghai First People's Hospital, Wu Xiening quickly mastered the latest Western medical techniques, thanks to the solid foundation he had built at St. John's University, and applied them flexibly in clinical practice. He particularly valued case analysis and engaged in in-depth discussions with his peers. This relentless effort allowed him to accumulate rich experience in treating heart and digestive system diseases, gradually becoming a top expert in these fields.

    Based on these three principles, Wu Xiening still remembers many patients whose lives he successfully saved. In 1953, just one year after graduation, Wu Xiening successfully saved a worker's life in an emergency. The worker had accidentally slipped into a cyanide solution pool and was rescued in a state of cyanosis, unconsciousness, and shallow breathing. Wu Xiening decisively used an exchange transfusion, replacing the worker's cyanide-affected red blood cells with fresh ones, successfully pulling the worker back from the brink of death. Starting in 1954, Wu Xiening innovatively used strophanthin K injections to replace the traditional oral digitalis, successfully treating many patients with severe left heart failure (Grade III and IV). Some of these patients even presented with pulmonary edema, coughing up pink frothy fluid. This innovative treatment not only significantly improved outcomes but also saved countless critically ill heart patients.

    Wu Xiening recalled a particularly complex case of a 69-year-old patient who was severely ill with multiple conditions, including severe heart disease, atrial fibrillation and flutter, heart failure, a high fever of 40.5°C, and a blood sugar level of 34.5. The patient was also in a coma and had bile duct obstruction, making surgery impossible. The patient had not had a bowel movement for a week and had not drunk water for three days, making the situation extremely critical. The hospital's emergency team was at a loss and decided to call in Wu Xiening. Facing such a complex and critical case, Wu Xiening first applied the theory of contradiction to quickly analyze the condition, identify the primary contradiction, and devise a series of solutions. He decided to transfer the patient to the gastroenterology ward to focus on targeted treatment. Wu Xiening first addressed the patient's water and electrolyte balance, administering only 500cc of fluid daily, controlling the infusion rate (one drop every eight minutes for 24 hours) to maintain hydration. Next, to reduce the high fever, he administered antipyretic medication through the nasal cavity, utilizing the high absorption rate of the nasal capillaries, which quickly lowered the patient's temperature by 1.5°C. Simultaneously, he devised a targeted blood sugar reduction plan, rapidly lowering the blood sugar to a safe level of 250. Additionally, due to the patient's low blood oxygen saturation, Wu Xiening prioritized resolving the bile duct obstruction. He cautiously chose an integrated approach, using Chinese herbal medicine to expel stones while supporting with Western medicine. Within two days, the patient's urine color gradually lightened, indicating the stones had been expelled. In treating the heart condition, Wu Xiening demonstrated his deep mastery of Western medical techniques. He found that the dose of digoxin used by the cardiology chief was too small and decisively increased it while administering diuretics. As the patient's blood pressure dropped, Wu Xiening adjusted the medication regimen, selecting a new combination of drugs to ensure safety and efficacy. With the head nurse's assistance, the patient received meticulous care. Three days later, the atrial fibrillation and flutter disappeared, and the heart size returned to normal. On the third day, the primary contradiction shifted to water and electrolyte balance and diabetes. Through careful adjustment, Wu Xiening gradually stabilized the patient's internal environment. After ensuring the patient's basic vital signs were stable, Wu Xiening turned his attention to diabetes control, quickly adjusting the treatment plan to restore blood sugar to normal levels. Throughout the treatment, Wu Xiening combined advanced Western medical techniques with the unique advantages of Chinese medicine, enabling the patient to recover within five days. The 69-year-old patient made a full recovery and maintained good health for the next ten years, passing away peacefully at the age of 79. Wu Xiening's strategy and methods in this successful rescue not only demonstrated his medical wisdom and exceptional skills but also showcased the practical application of his three key principles in clinical treatment.

    Another complex case that Wu Xiening still remembers vividly involved a female patient. One day, Wu Xiening received an emergency call about a female patient who had suddenly fallen into a coma. When her family brought her to the hospital, she was unconscious. As the family was unaware of her condition, emergency tests revealed extremely high blood sugar, leading to a diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis coma. Wu Xiening immediately began treatment, first rapidly correcting the blood sugar level to stabilize the patient. Several hours later, the patient gradually regained consciousness and told the doctor that she had eaten contaminated food. As Wu Xiening listened to the patient's medical history, he analyzed the possible causes. With his extensive experience, he keenly suspected that the patient might have other hidden conditions. Subsequently, the patient passed stool the color of jam, a symptom that led Wu Xiening to suspect gastrointestinal bleeding, possibly caused by necrotizing enteritis. Wu Xiening conducted further examinations. Through surgical abdominal exploration, a 40-centimeter section of the small intestine appeared cyanotic, indicating severe necrosis. The surgical team immediately decided to operate to prevent further deterioration. During the surgery, the surgeons carefully removed the necrotic section, successfully excising the cyanotic portion. However, after the surgery, the patient's condition did not fully improve. She suddenly began vomiting blood, and Wu Xiening realized this was a more severe complication—acute gastrointestinal bleeding worsening further. The patient's blood pressure dropped sharply, leading to shock. Faced with these sudden multiple complications, Wu Xiening calmly applied his principle of "identifying the primary contradiction and concentrating resources to solve the problem," initiating emergency treatment. Considering the patient also developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), Wu Xiening immediately began a new round of rescue efforts. Simultaneously, he used an integrated approach, employing Chinese herbal medicine to protect the liver and kidneys while administering hydrocortisone (a steroid). He also adjusted hemodynamic parameters, using precise drug combinations to maintain the patient's blood pressure and heart function. During this period, Wu Xiening meticulously analyzed the patient's condition daily, adjusting the treatment plan. He closely monitored the patient's organ function, with each step of treatment being methodical, and proposed detailed plans to prevent and address various possible complications. With the head nurse and nursing team's close cooperation, the patient's vital signs gradually stabilized. A few days later, the patient's condition stabilized, and her breathing returned to normal. After a long recovery process, the female patient was finally discharged from the hospital. Wu Xiening reflected deeply, "The development of modern medicine has given us the ability to face various complex cases, but only by adhering to scientific treatment principles and a solid technical foundation can we truly save patients' lives."

    Wu Xiening has achieved numerous accomplishments in clinical practice and has also made significant contributions in the field of academic research.

     "I have worked in multiple specialties throughout my career. For instance, I have 15 years of practical experience in cardiovascular medicine; in the field of hepatology, I have accumulated 50 years of valuable experience; and in gastroenterology, pancreas, and biliary tract, I have worked for 55 years. Additionally, I have worked in hematology, emergency medicine, and geriatrics for 10 and 4 years, respectively. These experiences have provided me with a solid foundation to handle various complex medical situations. Whether dealing with common ailments or rare and difficult cases, I have ample confidence and certainty. However, my primary achievements are concentrated in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), Crohn's disease, and various other challenging conditions, which have been my contributions to the medical field."

     In the mid-1990s, Wu Xiening conducted groundbreaking research in the field of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). He developed a new pathogenesis roadmap and proposed a set of integrated Chinese and Western medicine treatment protocols, successfully saving many SAP patients with high mortality rates without severe complications. He published multiple papers on the pathogenesis, standardized treatment, and therapeutic strategies of SAP, detailing the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine formulations. These research findings not only had a profound impact domestically but also garnered significant international attention.

     In 2019, Wu Xiening introduced a new concept of preventive treatment, significantly reducing the mortality rate of SAP to 2.9%. This innovative concept and treatment method were a first both domestically and internationally, with efficacy surpassing the national and U.S. averages. Wu Xiening's research not only provided new perspectives and methodologies theoretically but also achieved remarkable results in clinical practice, greatly improving patient outcomes.

     Wu Xiening also made outstanding contributions in the field of Crohn's disease (CD) research. In 2000, he pioneered a triple therapy integrating Chinese and Western medicine, significantly improving the efficacy of refractory CD, far exceeding similar treatments both domestically and internationally. He published a series of articles on the long-term efficacy of the triple therapy, including differences between Eastern and Western treatments, integrated Chinese and Western medicine for inflammatory bowel disease, preliminary exploration of the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease, treatment strategies, and its relationship with autoimmunity. These academic papers provided valuable references for peers both domestically and internationally, advancing research in this field.

     In 2024, at the age of 97, Wu Xiening published an article titled "Revisiting the Etiology, Pathogenesis, and Treatment of Crohn's Disease" in a gastroenterology and hepatology journal, further deepening the understanding and treatment approaches for Crohn's disease. He humorously referred to this article as his "swan song," symbolizing his ultimate summary and contribution to Crohn's disease research. This article filled gaps in the understanding of Crohn's disease pathogenesis both domestically and internationally and was considered an innovation.

     In the research and treatment of rare and complex diseases, Wu Xiening has made extensive achievements. In the early 1970s, he collaborated with the Institute of Biological Products to extract four pathogenic bacteria from the urine of patients with urinary tract infections, developing a urinary tract infection vaccine that effectively treated chronic pyelonephritis resistant to antibiotics at the time. From 1972 to 1973, Wu Xiening and his team used peritoneal dialysis and initiated the use of a small artificial kidney, successfully extending the lives of patients with multiple uremia. He also summarized the experience of peritoneal dialysis, laying a solid foundation for subsequent research.

     He pioneered the use of low-dose heparin for treating disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in China and used electroacupuncture combined with acupuncture at Hegu and Zusanli points to replace dopamine for treating septic shock. In 1974, he authored the first domestic monograph "Rescue of Septic Shock" in response to public demand, which was printed three times with a total of 10,000 copies, widely used by medical professionals nationwide. These initiatives significantly improved the cure rates of related diseases and provided valuable experience and references for future medical research.

    In the early 1980s, Wu Xiening conducted in-depth research on anti-aging drugs, developing Chinese H3 and inventing pantothenic acid calcium treatment for baldness and hair regrowth. Although Shanghai had not yet established a Science and Technology Progress Award at the time, Wu Xiening's research was widely recognized and highly praised. In the mid-1990s, he further proposed a pathogenesis roadmap for stable vascular plaques and a traditional Chinese medicine treatment plan, publishing related papers and advancing research and clinical applications in this field.

    In 2010, Wu Xiening proposed using the traditional Chinese medicine formula "Huaban Tang" to reduce carotid artery plaques and transform soft plaques into hard plaques to prevent cerebral infarction. This treatment plan was also applied to coronary artery atherosclerosis plaques and stenosis with good results. In 2018, Wu Xiening removed prepared fleeceflower root from the traditional Chinese medicine formula and added a small dose of leech, further improving the prevention and treatment effects of acute myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction, achieving results that no Western medicine could match in this field.

    In 2016, Wu Xiening successfully treated a severe case of portal vein system, lower limb vein, and proximal pulmonary artery thromboembolism combined with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) using intravenous thrombolysis with the traditional Chinese medicine Shuxuetong and oral Maixuekang. His proposed method of intravenous injection of Shuxuetong became a new option for pulmonary embolism treatment, demonstrating the immense potential of integrated Chinese and Western medicine in treating complex diseases.

    With 70 years of medical practice, Wu Xiening has saved countless critically ill patients, innovated and updated numerous treatment methods, and imparted this valuable knowledge and experience to doctoral, master's, and undergraduate students as well as peers nationwide. He stated that these achievements are not only the result of personal effort but also benefited from the inspiration and assistance of mentors such as Le Wenzhao, Jiang Shaoji, and Yan Hechang. Their guidance broadened Wu Xiening's horizons and knowledge, invigorated his thinking, and sharpened his observational skills.

    Even after turning eighty and ninety, Wu Xiening continued to tirelessly learn, dedicating decades to benefiting patients and contributing to the medical field. His achievements are not only the result of personal effort but also benefited from the strong support of his wife, Ye Zhen, allowing him to focus wholeheartedly on his medical career.

    Wu Xiening enjoys a high reputation. Leaders of the Shanghai Science and Technology Personnel Bureau once referred to him as one of the "three gold medals" in Shanghai's digestive medicine field. He has held numerous important positions, such as Chairman of the Shanghai Branch of the Chinese Society of Digestive Diseases, Standing Committee Member of the Shanghai Society of Hepatology, and Member of the Shanghai Society of Geriatric Medicine. He has also served as a judge for senior professional titles in Shanghai, a judge for the Science and Technology Progress Award, and Deputy Leader of the Digestive Group of the Medical Accident Appraisal Committee. He has authored and co-authored seven books and published over 280 papers, including 29 in English.

    After stepping down from the front line of the digestive department, Wu Xiening served as the director of the hospital's central laboratory for four years, recruiting two master's students, pioneering some experiments and research, and assisting clinical departments. He has also been relentless in teaching, participating in the evaluation of graduate thesis defenses both inside and outside the hospital, often serving as the group leader, and guiding 84 doctoral students and 130 master's students. He also wrote prefaces for the works of renowned traditional Chinese medicine practitioner Shen Pi'an, promoting the development of integrated Chinese and Western medicine.

    In 2024, at the age of 97, Wu Xiening published an article titled "Revisiting the Etiology, Pathogenesis, and Treatment of Crohn's Disease" in a gastroenterology and hepatology journal. This article not only represents his final summary of Crohn's disease research but also best embodies his boundless passion for the medical field. Wu Xiening humorously referred to this article as his "swan song," but it is evident that his academic enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge have never waned.

    Wu Xiening's achievements are not only due to his exceptional medical skills but also because he has consistently balanced clinical practice, research, and teaching, nurturing a large number of outstanding talents for the medical field.

    As a physician, Wu Xiening has continuously innovated in treating diseases; as a scholar, he has fearlessly explored the frontiers of medicine; and as a teacher, he has tirelessly imparted knowledge. Such a medical master is a true exemplar of a benevolent physician and lifelong dedication.

Onsite Interview 

ShanghaiDoctor.cn: How do you think young medical students should cultivate their medical literacy? 

 Wu Xiening: 

Young medical students must first approach medicine objectively and avoid being overly subjective. They should start with practice, continuously learn, and ask questions, taking it as their mission to solve the most pressing problems of patients. At the same time, they need to comprehensively understand the knowledge of various departments and not limit themselves to their own field. Additionally, they should focus on integrating Chinese and Western medicine, as it is essential to walk on both legs. 

ShanghaiDoctor.cn:  What were your significant contributions during your time at Shanghai First People's Hospital? 

 Wu Xiening: 

In the field of gastroenterology, I achieved some accomplishments and trained many students. For example, I introduced the hospital's first doctoral student, Director Wang Xingpeng, who later became a hospital leader and contributed significantly to transforming the hospital into a research-oriented institution. 

ShanghaiDoctor.cn:  As a Western medicine practitioner, why do you think traditional Chinese medicine and herbs are important? 

Wu Xiening: 

I believe the integration of Chinese and Western medicine is crucial. Traditional Chinese medicine has its unique advantages, such as its holistic approach and personalized treatment, as well as its modern pharmacological principles. Western medicine, on the other hand, is more precise and systematic in its technical methods. In my practice, I often combine the diagnostic and treatment methods of Western medicine with the syndrome differentiation and treatment principles of Chinese medicine based on the patient's specific condition to achieve better therapeutic outcomes. 

ShanghaiDoctor.cn: 

Aside from your medical work, do you have any special hobbies?  

Wu Xiening: 

My hobby is music, and I am a tenor. My wife is a soprano, and we came together because of our shared passion for music. My younger sister, Wu Yili, is a first-generation Chinese pianist and a pioneer in China's piano world.  

I enjoy visiting the Shanghai Grand Theatre, where many music enthusiasts gather. Music is a way for me to relax and find enjoyment. It provides me with joy and inspiration amidst the intense demands of my medical work.

Editor: Chen Qing @ ShanghaiDoctor.cn