Ever wondered how surgeons operate through tiny incisions, guided only by a camera? Glasgow University Surgical Society (GUSS) and Glasgow University Cardiovascular Society (GUCVS) are joining forces for an evening of hands-on endoscopic skills training. Whether you are set on a surgical career, curious about it, or simply enjoy learning practical skills, this is a brilliant chance to stop reading about surgery and try it for yourself.
Endoscopic and minimally invasive surgery has transformed modern medicine. Instead of large open incisions, surgeons now work through small ports using a camera and specialised instruments, which often means less pain, smaller scars and faster recovery for patients. It also demands a very different skill set from open surgery. Surgeons must work from a two-dimensional screen, coordinate both hands, and develop precise, steady movements. This evening is all about getting you started. You will have the chance to practise these skills yourself, with guidance from experienced surgeons who use them every day. It is a rare opportunity to move beyond lectures and textbooks and get a real feel for what this kind of surgery involves.
Your first speaker is Mr Nikos Kostoulas, Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital. Mr Kostoulas specialises in minimally invasive (keyhole and robotic) lung surgery and the surgical management of emphysema. He is also the Golden Jubilee’s Educational Lead in Thoracic Surgery, so he is passionate about teaching the next generation of surgeons and knows how to help beginners get to grips with new skills.
Joining him is Ms Chakrabarti, Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon at University Hospital Wishaw. Ms Chakrabarti brings expertise in colorectal and pelvic floor surgery, giving you a look at how endoscopic techniques are applied across different surgical specialties. Between them, you will hear first-hand about careers in thoracic and colorectal surgery, how minimally invasive techniques have changed clinical practice, and what it takes to train in a surgical specialty. This is a great chance to ask questions and get honest advice from people who have been through it themselves.
There are plenty of reasons to come along. You will learn by doing rather than just watching, with practical time at the equipment. You will be taught directly by two consultant surgeons who are experts in their fields. You will gain real insight into what life in thoracic and colorectal surgery is like. Practical skills experience is also a great addition to your portfolio and future applications, and it shows genuine commitment to developing as a future clinician. On top of that, you will meet like-minded students from both surgical and cardiovascular backgrounds, which is always a good way to build connections that last beyond a single evening.
No prior experience is needed. Beginners are very welcome, and the session is designed so that everyone can take part and build confidence, whatever their year of study or background. Everyone starts somewhere, and the best way to improve is to have a go in a supportive, friendly environment.
Spaces are very limited, because practical sessions work best in small groups where everyone gets proper time and attention. There are only 30 tickets in total, with 15 allocated to GUSS members and 15 allocated to GUCVS members. You only need membership of one of the two societies to book. If you are not a member yet, make sure you sign up to GUSS or GUCVS before tickets are released so you are ready to book straight away. With so few places, we expect them to go quickly, so keep an eye on our social media pages and be ready to grab your ticket as soon as they go live.
Please arrive promptly so you do not miss any of the session, and note that only ticket holders will be able to take part. If you book a ticket and find you can no longer attend, let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your place to someone else.
Glasgow University Surgical Society supports students interested in surgery through practical workshops, talks and career guidance from surgeons across a range of specialties. Glasgow University Cardiovascular Society brings together students with an interest in the heart and circulation, offering educational events, speaker talks and opportunities to learn about cardiovascular medicine and surgery. Together, we are bringing you an evening that combines our shared passion for hands-on learning and clinical excellence.
Don’t miss out on this brilliant opportunity to learn, practise and get inspired. Tell your friends and coursemates, and we will see you there! If you have any questions, message us directly or get in touch with the GUSS or GUCVS committee.