Surgical relief work in Haiti: a practical resident learning experience

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Surgical Education
• Humanitarian Medicine

Background:

• Voluntary surgical mission trips integrated into residency programs since 2007.
• Focus on a week-long annual mission to Hôpital Sacré Coeur in Milot, Haiti.
• Documenting experiences over a four-year period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the experiences of a surgical residency program's mission trip to Haiti.
• To evaluate the impact on residents, local healthcare providers, and patients.
• To highlight the benefits of international surgical electives.

Main Methods:

• Annual voluntary participation of surgical residents (PGY 3-5).
• Surgical missions conducted at Hôpital Sacré Coeur in Milot, Haiti.
• Recording of personal and clinical experiences in clinics and operating rooms.

Main Results:

• Six surgical residents and staff participated since 2007.
• 247 patients observed in clinics; 184 surgical cases performed.
• Broad range of surgical cases including head/neck, breast, abdominal, and urology.

Conclusions:

• Surgical mission trips are a valuable asset to residency programs.
• Provides humanitarian aid, supports local healthcare, and offers residents unique clinical experience.
• Offers profound personal and professional growth opportunities for participants.