Paging Dr. Carrie...

Fully decked in scrubs, shoes, masks, and hair nets, I was ready to enter the operation room at the University Clinics in Bonn on Wednesday, July 13th. My only experience with ORs involved the dramatics of television, so I was really excited to see what actually goes on during surgery.

After splitting into different groups and getting properly dressed and steralized, we entered our OR or "theater" as they are called. My group (Michelle, Heather, Josh, and Matt) awkwardly stood off to the side praying we weren't in anyone's way. Thankfully one of the doctors explained to us that we were observing a spinal fusion on a 56 year old male. Screws and pins were to be placed on a lumbar vertebrae to correct the curvature already taking place. After putting on more gear for x-ray protection we were officially ready for some surgical action!

After more awkward standing trying not to take up too much space, we were offered step-stools at the head of the patient to get a better view of the incision located on his back. There were two surgeons working in unison on the procedure with another doctor who was in charge of all the surgical equipment. There were also several (rotating?) anesthesiologists along with another doctor/nurse who helped out wherever needed.

Everyone in the room was really hospitable and occasionally talked about what was happening. I do wish we had more commentary so I knew what was going on, but I'd rather them focus on their jobs. The incision was about 10 cm deep on the back of the patient. The first task involved pushing muscle around to get to the spine. Most of the time the surgeons were just pounding equipment into the patient. The equipment and actions reminded me of a mechanic/handy man job. Once the vertebrae was reached, 4 screws were driven into the patient. X-rays were taken frequently so the doctors could see if the screws were going inside the body in the proper orientation. This was a great way for us to see exactly where they were being placed. Several small metal cylindrical pins were also added for securing the screws. With all the pounding and drilling, I was amazed at the rough handling of the equipment inside the body. This procedure made me realize that the body isn't quite as delicate as I thought. The procedure lasted for about three hours. Sewing up the incision was cool to watch. Since this wound was so deep, multiple threads were used inside the body to hold the muscle and skin back together.

I was amazed at the unison and teamwork of everyone involved. Everyone had to know exactly what they were doing at all times while anticipating the actions of others and working efficiently. The room was large with plenty of room to get around (however, the 5 of us took up lots of room). Being able to stand for long periods of time is a big requirement. I've never been interested in becoming a surgeon but being an anesthesiologist would be an amazing job...although the liability and responsibility is intense. I really enjoyed wearing the srubs and feeling like a real doctor. (Josh even got mistaken for one during the procedure!) Thanks to Dr. Wasser, AIB, and the University Clinics for giving us this amazing opportunity!