Dr.Vitale practicing surgical suturing with a Mini-Med student.

The ONS Foundation’s Annual Mini-Med program was held from June 30 through July 1, 2014 at the Foundation’s Arthroscopy, Surgical Skills, and Biomechanical Research Lab.  

A select group of sixteen students from Greenwich High School, Greenwich Academy, Brunswick School and Stamford High School participated in the comprehensive program. The students, part of STEM program, were chosen from an impressive applicant pool and demonstrated an interest in medicine.  They had an opportunity to participate in an in depth workshop with a focus on orthopedics.

ONS physicians, doctors from diagnostic imaging, as well as physical therapists and nurses introduced Mini-Med students to the field of medicine and surgery through a hands-on experience. Students learned about common orthopedic problems, physical examination and the use of tools in diagnosis. They were exposed to the operating room environment and the different surgical procedures.  Lab work included proper casting techniques, surgical suturing techniques, the importance of physical therapy and how it stimulates the recovery process.  Students submitted their comments.  One wrote,”…I liked the PT and the knee/shoulder arthroscopy.  It was fascinating.”  Others said that the best lectures involved x-ray and MRI. Two other favorites were suturing and casting.

Mini-Med Program 2014

“The Mini-Med Program at the ONSF Lab creates a mentor/student relationship that has the capability of changing a young person’s life,” said Dr. Paul Sethi orthopedic surgeon and Foundation President.

Students received an introduction to evidence-based medicine and each was assigned the review of clinical papers by Dr. Sethi. In addition, Dr. Delos and Ray Delacruz lectured on the operating room environment prior to and post-surgery.  Under the supervision of Drs. Vitale and Greene, students were able to practice surgical suturing and casting.

The enthusiasm of these students makes the Mini-Med School rewarding for the medical staff and students. “We continue to modify the program and expand the scope to give students a realistic view of medicine,” said Dr. Mark Vitale.

The 2015 Min-Med School date will be announced soon.