International Microsurgery Experts Gather at CUMC

CUMC's Department of Orthopedics hosted the second annual International Microsurgery Simulation Society meeting in May.  The society connects microsurgery educators, researchers, and practicing surgeons from around the world who are dedicated to promoting excellence in their field.  Fifty members traveled from 12 countries to convene at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, where they spent a day discussing key issues related to practice, training, and assessment.

By all accounts, the event was a great success, with effects that will ripple outward from the day-long meeting in Washington Heights.

Dr. Yelena Akelina, president of the society as well as an associate research scientist and associate director of CUMC's Microsurgery Research and Training Lab, believes the work of the society can be used to assess and improve surgical skills.

"That translates to better patient care," said Dr. Akelina.  "The better surgeons do, the better patients do."