MSSS x NUMed SurgSoc: Scalpels & Sutures Workshop (SSW)

It is never too late to master new surgical skills.

The recent MSSS & NUMed Surgical Symposium 2024 proved to be a valuable platform for medical students, particularly those aspiring to dive into surgical careers. The symposium offered a significant head start by delving into fundamental surgical skills and house officer clinical procedures. 

The event commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony. Prof Harinarayan Radhakrishna, Dean of Clinical Affairs at NUMed, warmly welcomed all participants. Following this, appreciation speeches were delivered by Kavin Raj Purushottaman (NUMed Organizing Chairperson) and V N Nuvaira Tasneem (MSSS Organizing Chairperson). Officiating speeches by Madam Tuan Nur’ Azmah binti Tuan Mat, Head of General Surgery Department at HSA, and Prof Dato Dr Kandasami Palayan, MSSS Advisor, further emphasised the significance of the symposium and offered encouragement to the aspiring future surgeons. 

Following the opening ceremony, the first half of the day kicked into high gear with a hands-on workshop focused on essential house officer clinical procedures and basic surgical skills. This practical session delved into thoracostomy, suturing, and suprapubic catheterization. To ensure a well-rounded experience, participants were divided into groups and rotated through different stations roughly every hour. Each station benefited from the guidance of medical officers, specialists, and peer facilitators from both MSSS and NUMed, creating a rich learning environment. This time, the event included medical students from Singapore, fostering international collaboration and broadening the professional network for participants.

The afternoon session started shortly after a hearty lunch with the intensive Scalpels & Sutures Workshop. Participants delved into procedures like episiotomy repair, knot tying, and even laparoscopic training. Stations rotated, ensuring everyone received hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned specialists and doctors.

Exhausted but exhilarated, participants emerged from the workshop with valuable new skills, having mastered some, if not all, of the techniques covered at each station. A brief closing ceremony marked the successful conclusion of the event, while dedicated photographers captured memories to cherish. The MSSS & NUMed Surgical Symposium 2024 undoubtedly left a lasting impression, shaping the future of surgery for the next generation of medical professionals.

Written by

Iris Lau Shin Yee

Secretary of MSSS x NUMed Surgical Symposium 2024