I thought that my experience in Guatemala was going to be amazing, but it was so much more. Not only was it an intensive surgical experience for me as a resident, it was an opportunity to step outside of our healthcare system and return back to basic patient care.
We had a very busy and productive week. We evaluated 35+ GYN patients and operated on 19 patients. Over four days, I performed six vaginal hysterectomies, four abdominal hysts, two sacrocolpopexies, four other reconstructive cases (A&P, colpocleisis, sling), and four laparotomies for ovarian masses. I was very proud to hear that I was complimented by our team for my Spanish skills, calming effect with the patients, and surgical skills. The team is already asking if I can come back for the next three years!
Working with the medical staff and patients in Antigua helped me to remember why I entered the field of medicine in the first place. Toward the end of my week, I was already trying to figure out when I could come back. This trip made me realize that international health work will be an important part of my life from now on.
--Catherine Hudson, MD