From Scotland to Singapore: a journey of discovery

Dr. Loong's journey in medicine started at the University of Dundee in Scotland where he obtained his medical degree. He then had the opportunity to work alongside pioneers in minimally-invasive surgery at Ninewells Hospital, as well as saw firsthand the beginnings of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) movement at the Western General Hospital, Later, his time at University College Hospital in London allowed him to dive deeply into research on anal warts and anal intraepithelial neoplasia.

Returning home: applying global lessons locally

Upon returning to Singapore, he brought his experiences to Singapore General Hospital and Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), and enhanced the quality of colonoscopies and improved the outcomes for colon and rectal cancer surgeries. It was his passion for innovation that then led him to train in robotic-assisted colorectal surgery, mastering cutting-edge techniques for low rectal cancers.

Broadening horizons: pelvic floor and nutrition

Undertaking a fellowship at CHU Nantes in France introduced him to functional colorectal conditions, spurring him on to establish the Colorectal Pelvic Floor Disorder clinic at TTSH. His journey continued while working closely with the TTSH Nutrition Support Team and the Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. The roles deepened his appreciation for the crucial role nutrition plays in health, allowing him to offer a more holistic and supportive approach to patient care.

Reflecting on a multifaceted career

Being a colorectal surgeon was not a path that Dr. Loong had set out on, but as he looks back on his journey thus far, he is grateful for the way it has unfolded. This field has woven itself into his journey in unexpected and meaningful ways, leading him to a rewarding career with diverse and fascinating subspecialties. From pioneering minimally invasive techniques and treating anal warts, to advancing robotic surgery and understanding functional pelvic floor disorders, along with exploring the importance of nutrition in gut health – each chapter of his professional story has contributed to a comprehensive skill set.

Today, as he provides personalised care to his patients, he draw upon this diverse background. His multifaceted journey – spanning operating rooms, research labs, and nutrition teams – enables him to offer a holistic approach to colorectal health, addressing each patient's unique needs with a well-rounded perspective. He remains excited about the future of colorectal surgery, with the focus on enhancing patient outcomes and enriching quality of life for those he cares for.