I was able to engage in a vast array of reconstructive as well as cosmetic procedures. I got the opportunity to assist in numerous different surgeries and in-house procedures from atypical nevus removals, facelifts, breast reductions and repairs of tendons. From dermatology to orthopedics and everything in between, I got to experience it all!
Dr. Michelow’s patient population consists of male/female, pediatric/adult, and anything from head to toe. In my time at the practice and under close supervision, I experienced an excision of a giant congenital nevus on a pediatric patient, removal of an atypical nevus of the foot, placement of a screw into a middle phalanx, and sewing of an extensor tendon back together, just to name a few. All of the procedures listed above were done with Dr. Michelow teaching me each step of the way.
The amount of trust Dr. Michelow has in his students is a great feeling. Not only was I being told and shown how something was done, I was involved in it!
Outside of procedures, I was able to understand the dynamics of an interprofessional workplace. When visiting Dr. Michelow’s hand clinic I got the opportunity to see how occupational and physical therapists work with patients. It was interesting to see the progression and the effect of good follow-up care on a patient. For example, a patient we saw with a gunshot wound to the index finger was unable to move his hand at all and now is regaining motion. The progression is amazing to witness.
I benefited from a one-on-one suturing class at a local hospital, attended residency meetings, and had multiple networking opportunities. Dr. Michelow has even offered to be a reference when it comes time to apply for positions.
Although Cleveland was a long way for me to travel, Dr.Michelow and his staff made me feel right at home. The staff was extremely welcoming and eager to teach and show me how the office runs. Once I learned the system, I was taking history and physicals, helping with physical exams and finishing off by writing complete SOAP notes and setting follow-up appointments.
Coming into this rotation, I thought it was going to be all breast augmentations and tummy tucks, but I learned very quickly it was much more than just cosmetics. The knowledge I have gained is that of which I do not believe any other rotation has given me. The variety of different cases I saw made this a great learning experience that I will remember forever!
I highly recommend this rotation to all PA students interested in any type of surgery. Dr. Michelow and his staff have been wonderful and I will miss them so much! Thank you for an amazing opportunity!
Kinslee Scamaldo, PA-S
A.T. Still University
Mesa, AZ
