2024 News
Surgical insights
Erasmus
09/15/2024
On October 15th, our 5th and 6th-year students shared their enriching experiences from Erasmus and elective programs across Europe.
Pelayo Aguilera Fernández spent time at IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele in Milan, rotating through urology, ICU, and traumatology, where he engaged in innovative healthcare practices.
Alexia Jimenez de Parga Punset joined Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS in London, gaining insights into advanced medical technologies and multidisciplinary teamwork in the renal transplant unit.
Sol Rull and Fran Maldonado explored Beaumont Hospital, participating in hands-on learning in general surgery and experiencing a different health system.
Carlos Villarroya García visited St. James’ Hospital in Dublin, assisting in surgeries over 10 weeks and becoming an integral part of the team.
These experiences have been invaluable for their professional and personal growth, allowing them to expand medical knowledge while exploring new cultures and making lasting friendships.
Their Lives in Our Hands: Insights into the Human Side of Neurosurgery
On October 10th, renowned neurosurgeon Henry Marsh presented a thought-provoking lecture titled “Their Lives in Our Hands” at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona. Organized in collaboration with several medical institutions, the event highlighted the critical role of doctors in balancing technical skill with genuine empathy. Marsh stressed that, beyond surgery, a doctor’s responsibility includes understanding the emotional impact of medical interventions on both patients and their families.
The lecture was followed by a roundtable discussion moderated by Jesús Lafuente (Hospital del Mar), featuring experts like Jonathan McFarland (The Doctor as Humanist), Manuel Pera (Hospital del Mar), and Àlex Godó (UPF Alumni). The panel delved into the ethical and human challenges of neurosurgery, enriching the event with multidisciplinary perspectives.
Adriana Santana, Pelayo Aguilera, and Clara Massegú Excel at the Future Physicians for Health Congress
The Gimbernat Surgical Society is thrilled to announce that Adriana Santana secured second place in the International Impact category with her poster titled “Gimbernat Surgical Society” at the Future Physicians for Health congress held in Washington, D.C., from May 29 to June 1!
This accomplishment reflects the exceptional efforts of the Gimbernat Surgical Society team, and special thanks are extended to her co-authors, Pelayo Aguilera and Clara Massegú, as well as Dr. Pera for his unwavering support.
A heartfelt shoutout goes to the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) for organizing such an impressive event. Adriana was thoroughly impressed by the work done and the activities offered over the three days, including the “Sim Challenge” and Advocacy Day.
Attending the Future Physicians for Change congress provided an incredible opportunity for Adriana to represent both the Gimbernat Surgical Society and Universitat Pompeu Fabra. Her poster highlighted the society’s objectives: fostering surgical vocation, shaping future healthcare leaders, and enhancing medical students’ skills. The annual SCALPEL congress offers invaluable hands-on experiences and networking opportunities for aspiring surgeons. Through these initiatives, the Gimbernat Surgical Society aims to inspire the next generation of medical professionals and encourage international students to join them.
Why is Bioethics so Important?
On May 16, Professor and Researcher in Genetics at the University of Barcelona, Gemma Marfany, reviewed the history of bioethics up to the present and addressed new bioethical dilemmas that have arisen with advances in genetic technologies.
The conference was held in collaboration with UNSA Barcelona and iGEM Barcelona-UB.
Bioethics is essential because it allows us to confront the ethical challenges that arise with scientific and technological advancements, ensuring that progress in fields like genetics and biomedicine takes place responsibly and humanely. It helps us assess the moral implications of research and the application of new technologies, protecting both society and individuals from potential abuses and risks.
Finance and Health
On January 18, Pompeu Consulting Finance and Gimbernat Surgical Society are hosting an exclusive gathering designed to foster synergies between founders of medical startups and investment funds specializing in the sector. The event will explore the structure and stages involved in this space from both the entrepreneur’s and investor’s perspectives. Their aim is to provide insights into daily operations and the exciting opportunities within this field. The event will be divided into four key segments: an introduction and overview of clinical startups, an introduction and overview of venture capital operations in the medical sector, a specialized Q&A with both parties to delve into the typical workflows and dynamics, and an open forum for speakers, where discussion and audience questions will be encouraged.