Early Morning Rounds and the World of Surgical Teams: What I Learned During My Core Rotation

Starting the day at 4 AM to prepare for surgical rounds might sound daunting, but it offers a unique window into the rhythm and teamwork that define hospital life. During my core rotation, I experienced firsthand how early mornings shape the surgical teams, the variety of cases handled, and the skills that medical residents develop. This post shares insights from those early hours, the structure of surgical teams, and the hands-on experiences that left a lasting impression.

The Early Morning Routine and Its Importance

Waking up at 4 AM was necessary to be ready for rounds starting around 6 AM. By 5:30 AM, the team gathered in the residents’ lounge, preparing mentally and reviewing patient charts. These rounds typically lasted between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of patients.

The quiet of the early morning created a focused environment. It was a time when the team could discuss patient progress, plan surgeries, and assign cases without the distractions that come later in the day. This routine taught me the value of preparation and punctuality in a high-stakes setting.

How Surgical Teams Are Organized

The surgery department was divided into three teams, each with a specific focus:

• Red Team: Handled vascular cases, breast surgeries, and plastics. This team dealt with complex cases like femoral artery clots and mastectomies.

• Blue Team: Focused on geriatrics and bariatric surgeries, including ostomy care, colon surgeries, hysterectomies, and gastric bypasses.

• Gold Team: Managed acute trauma surgery, including cases involving children, older adults, and emergency abdominal issues.

  
  

Each team had two or three residents and a couple of interns who guided us through the cases. The variety of cases meant that surgical experience was broad, ranging from minimally invasive procedures to long, complex operations.

Types of Cases and What I Learned

During my rotation, I gravitated toward early morning cases, which often meant starting surgeries as early as 7 AM. Here are some of the key cases I participated in:

• Vascular Surgery: I was involved in a six-hour operation to clear a blocked femoral artery caused by a clot. This case highlighted the importance of precision and patience in vascular surgery.

• Breast Surgery: I assisted in multiple breast tissue removals, including mastectomies and biopsies. These cases required careful handling and attention to detail.

• Bariatric Surgery: Although I preferred other teams, I gained experience in gastric bypass and sleeve procedures, learning about patient care before and after surgery.

• Trauma and Acute Cases: The gold team exposed me to emergency surgeries, including robotic hernia repairs and adrenalectomies lasting up to seven hours.

  
  

Skills Gained Beyond Surgery

Surgery is not only about performing operations. I learned several practical skills that are essential for patient care:

• Drain Management: I learned how to drain fluids, manage JP drains, and remove bladder drains safely.

• Stitching and Wound Care: I stitched up multiple patients, gaining confidence in suturing techniques.

• Robotic Surgery Exposure: Participating in robotic-assisted surgeries gave me insight into modern surgical technology and its benefits.

  
  

These skills reinforced my preference for minimally invasive procedures. I found satisfaction in quick, effective interventions rather than extensive, invasive surgeries.

Teamwork and Teaching in the Operating Room

The surgical teams operated like well-oiled machines. Residents and interns worked closely, sharing knowledge and supporting each other. Teaching moments were frequent, with senior residents explaining techniques and decision-making processes.

This environment fostered learning and growth. It also showed me how critical communication and collaboration are in surgery. Every team member’s role mattered, from the lead surgeon to the interns managing post-operative care.

Reflections on the Experience

My core rotation taught me that surgery is a demanding but rewarding field. Early mornings, long hours, and complex cases are part of the journey. I discovered that while I enjoy surgery, I prefer cases that are less invasive and more focused on quick recovery.

The rotation also emphasized the importance of adaptability. Each day brought different challenges, requiring flexibility and a willingness to learn. The exposure to various surgical specialties helped me understand where my interests lie and how I want to shape my future career.