Surgery!!!

Today, two other interns and I were able to observe a few minor surgeries. For the team that we are following this week, they do minor surgeries on Wednesday. We got to see a lymph node biopsy and Rebecca got to assist, she even got to touch inside the incision to feel for the lymph!!!! It was so incredible, we were able to see everything. The setting was very informal and only the Doctor and Rebecca wore scrubs and gloves. The rest of us just had surgical masks on and watched. I didn't really feel unsafe, but a little exposed for sure. The doctor told us step by step how to do everything, it was AMAZING. Next we got to see a circumcision. It was quite a sight! In Africa, males get circumcised at about the age of 16. There was very little to the procedure, he was given some basic local numbing and that was it, the patient was awake. All the patients in minor surgery are awake. We got to see everything from the removal of the foreskin to the cauterizing of the small vessels. Tomorrow hopefully I will be able to assist!! We also got to see a little bit of a lumpectomy from the other theater. I noticed that the surgeries are not very sanitary. Frequently object were drops, then just quickly rinsed off and put back to use. I could hardly believe it! Most of the surgeons said they didn't have the proper tools for the surgeries, but had to make due with what they had. It was really an eye opening experience to see how other countries operate, it was nothing like the US. After the surgery the patient just got up and left, no paperwork or follow up or anything. This makes me think that I definitely do not want to get sick here! YIKES! Miss you Hilary and Al, can't wait to see you guys, love you sooo much!