Surgery & Surgical Skills 10th–12th

This two-week intensive introduces students to the principles and techniques of modern surgery through hands-on skill development, case studies, anatomy exploration, and simulated procedures. Students learn not only how surgical procedures are performed, but also why they are performed, gaining insight into the physiology, pathology, and decision-making that guide patient care.

Week 1: General Surgery

Students begin by mastering foundational surgical techniques, including instrument handling, knot tying, and suturing. As their skills develop, they apply these techniques to increasingly complex surgical simulations while exploring the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal system.

Topics include:

• Surgical instruments and operating room fundamentals
• One-handed and two-handed knot tying
• Suturing techniques, including running and subcuticular closures
• Airway management, intubation, tracheostomy, and emergency airway procedures
• Hiatal hernia repair and anti-reflux surgery
• Esophageal and stomach disorders and surgical treatment
• Management of ulcers and gastrointestinal perforations
• Appendectomy and colorectal surgery
• Ileostomy and colostomy procedures
• Gallbladder disease and cholecystectomy

Throughout the week, students participate in hands-on simulations designed to reinforce both technical skills and clinical reasoning.

Week 2: Vascular and Cardiothoracic Surgery

Building on the skills acquired during the first week, students explore the challenges of vascular and cardiac surgery. They learn how surgeons repair blood vessels, restore circulation, and support patients undergoing complex heart procedures.

Topics include:

• Vascular suturing and anastomosis techniques
• Repair of traumatic vascular injuries
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm repair
• Peripheral vascular disease and bypass procedures
• Central venous access and catheter placement
• Angioplasty and minimally invasive vascular interventions
• Carotid artery surgery and stroke prevention
• Hemodynamics and critical care monitoring
• Dialysis access surgery
• Introduction to cardiopulmonary bypass
• Coronary artery bypass surgery
• Heart valve disease and replacement
• Simulated coronary bypass procedure

By the end of the program, students will have developed a broad understanding of surgical specialties, strengthened their technical skills, and gained firsthand experience with many of the procedures that define modern surgery.