I completed a four-week general surgery block as part of the core third-year medical school rotations.
Structure and Schedule of the Rotation
During the first two weeks and last week, I was assigned to one preceptor, while the third week placed me on the acute care team—a trauma service.
During my week in acute care, my schedule was a challenging 7 AM to 7 PM shift. These 12-hour shifts differed from the more typical 9-to-5 hours of other rotations. This period involved observing and assisting with urgent surgical consults, trauma cases, and patient admissions. I witnessed a range of cases, from gunshot wounds and fractures to abscess drainages and appendectomies.
The other three weeks were more balanced, with days split between clinic and operating room (OR) time while working with one attending. Clinic days ran from about 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, while OR days were typically from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Types of Cases and Surgeries
My primary preceptor performed numerous cholecystectomies (gallbladder removals), hernia repairs (both inguinal and umbilical), hemorrhoidectomies, and lymph node biopsies. During clinic days, I assessed patients for surgery (pre-operative consultations) and assisted in minor procedures, like cyst removals and abscess drainages.
The acute care week brought its own set of learning experiences. The trauma service exposed me to emergency scenarios and consults for a variety of conditions, from severe injuries to potential biopsies for dermatological concerns.
Personal Reflections
One of the main takeaways from this rotation was discovering that surgery, despite its complexity and importance, isn't the right fit for me. I came into medical school with an open mind about different specialties and genuinely considered surgery an option, especially given my competitive board scores and prior experience shadowing orthopedic surgeons. However, my time in the OR highlighted that while the work was initially stimulating, it quickly became monotonous. The repetitive nature of common surgeries, even when performed with the utmost skill, lacked the engagement I sought. While many surgeons thrive on mastering specific procedures, I prefer a dynamic environment where patient interaction is key.
The OR's high-intensity atmosphere, sterile protocols, and long hours of preparation and assisting at times felt overwhelming. I enjoy patient interactions more during clinic visits, where I can talk to and assess patients, plan follow-up care, and perform minor office procedures.
Another aspect that stood out to me was how different specialties attract certain types of medical professionals. General surgery and other surgical specialties attract individuals inherently drawn to the technical and procedural aspects. While I respect and appreciate the dedication of surgeons who commit to this demanding path, I recognized that my strengths and interests lie elsewhere. Surgery requires a five-year residency (or longer for subspecialties); for the first few years, much of the role involves observing and assisting. The thought of enduring that repetition for years didn’t appeal to me.
Choosing a specialty in medicine is deeply personal, and while many find their calling in the OR, others, like me, may seek fulfillment in patient-facing specialties. I admire the skill and commitment of surgeons and am grateful for their role, but I quickly discovered in just a few short weeks that my path would lead me elsewhere. This realization is one of the many gifts of medical school—learning not just what we want to do, but what we don’t.