Morio Kasai

Morio Kasai (October 29, 1922 – December 8, 2008) was a renowned Japanese pediatric surgeon, best known for developing the Kasai procedure, a surgical technique used to treat biliary atresia in infants. His contributions to pediatric surgery have had a lasting impact on the treatment of this congenital condition.

Early Life and Education

Morio Kasai was born in Chiba, Japan. He pursued his medical education at the University of Tokyo, where he graduated with a degree in medicine. Kasai's interest in pediatric surgery was sparked during his early years of medical training, leading him to specialize in this field.

Career

After completing his medical education, Kasai began his career at the University of Tokyo Hospital. He later moved to the National Center for Child Health and Development in Tokyo, where he focused on pediatric surgery. It was here that he developed the procedure that would bear his name.

Development of the Kasai Procedure

The Kasai procedure, also known as the hepatoportoenterostomy, was developed in the 1950s. This innovative surgical technique involves the removal of the atretic bile ducts and the creation of a new pathway for bile drainage from the liver to the intestine. The procedure is typically performed on infants diagnosed with biliary atresia, a condition where the bile ducts are blocked or absent, leading to liver damage.

Kasai's procedure significantly improved the prognosis for infants with biliary atresia, offering a chance for normal liver function and growth. Prior to this development, the condition was almost universally fatal.

Legacy

Morio Kasai's work has had a profound impact on pediatric surgery and the treatment of biliary atresia. The Kasai procedure remains the standard initial treatment for this condition worldwide. Kasai's dedication to improving surgical outcomes for children has inspired generations of pediatric surgeons.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Kasai received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to medicine, including recognition from various surgical societies and medical institutions.

Personal Life

Kasai was known for his humility and dedication to his patients. He continued to work and teach until his retirement, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and compassion in pediatric surgery.

Also see

• Biliary atresia
• Pediatric surgery
• Hepatoportoenterostomy
• University of Tokyo

Morio Kasai

• Morio Kasai
  Morio Kasai