Dr. Joao Rezende-Neto, a prominent surgeon and Chief Medical Officer at AbClo, has a rich and compelling story that is deeply rooted in his upbringing and experiences. From his early years in Brazil to his current role in developing life-saving medical devices, Dr. Rezende-Neto’s journey is one of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence in the medical field.
Early Years and Inspirations
Dr. Rezende-Neto was born in a small town in southeastern Brazil, between Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, in the state of Minas Gerais. His father Prof. Servulo Rezende, an agricultural engineer, had a significant influence on his early interest in science. Growing up in an academic environment, with a father who later took up a university position and his mother Maria Aparecida who was a school teacher, Dr. Rezende-Neto was surrounded by intellectual curiosity and a love for learning.
As a child, Dr. Rezende-Neto exhibited an early fascination with surgery, often “operating” on his sisters’ dolls and once cut off the doll’s finger in an operation. By the age of eight, he was already considering a future in surgery. His interest in biology and science was further nurtured by his collection of animals, which he preserved in alcohol-filled jars and meticulously studied. These early experiences laid the foundation for his scientific curiosity and passion for medicine.
Journey to Medicine
Dr. Rezende-Neto’s path to becoming a surgeon was shaped by numerous influences and experiences. A pivotal moment was his encounter with a pediatrician neighbour during his childhood, whose white lab coat and dedication left a lasting impression. Later, his father’s academic endeavours took the family to Lafayette, Indiana, where Dr. Rezende-Neto’s exposure to American education and sports added to his formative experiences.
Upon returning to Brazil, Dr. Rezende-Neto attended high school at Coluni (Colegio Universitario), an institution linked to the Federal University of Vicosa, where his father worked. This rigorous academic environment prepared him well for university entrance exams, leading him to Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte for medical school.
Medical Education and Early Career
During his time in medical school, Dr. Rezende-Neto’s passion for surgery solidified. His exceptional performance in human anatomy earned him a teaching assistant position while still a medical student. He spent countless hours dissecting cadavers and preparing anatomical specimens.
This hands-on experience, coupled with mentorship from esteemed professors like Marcio Alberto Cardoso and Jose Vilmar in the department of Anatomy, and Dr. Sizenando Starling in the Joao XXIII Trauma Center honed his skills and deepened his knowledge.
Graduating in 1990, Dr. Rezende-Neto pursued a residency in general surgery, followed by a specialization in trauma surgery. His dedication and skill earned him a coveted spot in a highly competitive residency program. Mentored by the technically gifted Dr. Wilson Abrantes and Dr. Lazaro da Silva, Dr. Rezende-Neto gained invaluable experience in trauma and general surgery surgery, setting the stage for his future career.
Professional Milestones
After completing his residency, Dr. Rezende-Neto’s career took him to Boston for a trauma and critical care fellowship, followed by a research fellowship in Denver, Colorado. Returning to Brazil, he continued his work in trauma care and academic general surgery, contributing to developing trauma care and emergency general surgery and mentoring young surgeons. Dr. Rezende-Neto received multiple teaching awards from medical students and residents during his tenure at the Federal University of Minas Gerais.
In 2013, Dr. Rezende-Neto moved to Canada, where he joined the Division of General Surgery as a trauma and general surgeon at Saint Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. Over his career, he has performed over 10,000 operations, meticulously documenting each. His extensive experience and dedication to patient care have made him a respected figure in the medical community.
Formation of AbClo
Dr. Rezende-Neto’s innovative spirit and pragmatic approach to improve surgical outcomes led to the creation of the company InventoRR MD Inc. The company focuses on developing medical devices that are both effective and easy to use. One of those devices is called AbClo. A non-invasive system for gradual closure of the abdominal wall fascial. The AbClo System addresses challenges faced in trauma, emergency surgery and other surgical specialties. The team’s breakthrough came with the proven success of AbClo in abdominal wall closure, reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.
Role at AbClo and Vision for the Future
As Chief Medical Officer of the company, Dr. Rezende-Neto plays a pivotal role in AbClo’s development and outreach. He travels extensively, meeting with medical centres, presenting clinical data, and providing expert insights. His hands-on experience and credibility lend significant weight to AbClo’s mission.
Looking ahead, Dr. Rezende-Neto envisions further innovations including additional versions of AbClo that can be applied in different settings, including versions for laparoscopic procedures. He is committed to ensuring that AbClo continues to reduce healthcare costs and improve patient care, always keeping the patient at the center of the medical relationship.
Dr. Joao Rezende-Neto’s journey from a small town in Brazil to the forefront of medical innovation is a testament to his passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His work with AbClo exemplifies his commitment to improving surgical outcomes and advancing the field of trauma care. Through his story, we see the profound impact that one individual can have on the world of medicine, driven by a lifelong dedication to science and patient care.