MEL 7815: Advanced Surgical Skills: Surgical Intern Preparedness

Dr. Steven Goldin and the General Surgical Faculty (Tampa)

Drs. Joseph Stirparo and Robert Barraco (LVHN)

This is a one-month intensive intern boot camp course designed to prepare students entering a surgical residency or career. The course will consist of a series of didactic sessions involving advanced surgical topics, include the entire Web Initiatives for Surgical Education Modules (Wise-MD), and involve multiple laboratory sessions where students learn a variety of procedures in a simulated environment. These simulated experiences include understanding ATLS/ACLS principles, implementing interventions for acute life threatening disorders, placement of central venous and pulmonary artery catheters, treatment of dysrhythmias, the Fundamentals in Laparoscopic Surgery Course (a requirement for the American Board of Surgery) that includes basic laparoscopic procedures including transferring, cutting, use of ligating loops, and intra and extracorporeal knot tying. Students will also learn to do various intern level surgical procedures including a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, colonoscopy, and upper endoscopy using virtual reality simulation and prosection procedures. The skills gained in this course will allow our students to have a clear advantage over other students with regards to managing patients on the floor and ICU as well as better preparing them to work in the operating room.

Objectives

1. Complete common surgical procedures using simulators and prosections
2. Develop an advanced understanding of the etiology, pathogenesis and diagnostic studies used to diagnose and treat surgical diseases
3. Develop an advanced understanding of surgical treatment options and alternatives for surgical diseases
4. Be able to recognize and treat immediate life threatening conditions
5. Improve their ability to treat and relieve pain and suffering

Evaluation

Students will be evaluated based on laboratory performance, a final simulation exam, and attendance. Students will receive feedback at the midpoint of the rotation in order to identify any areas at risk for failure and areas for improvement. At the end of the rotation, a summative evaluation will be submitted with each student’s grade.

This elective is NOT available to visiting students.