Why did you choose the program for residents of Dr. Piñal?

Dr. Piñal has not only a wide world recognition for his work on hand and peripheral nerve surgery but also, as I had seen by following his published work and conferences, he has built his surgical practice from critical thinking and lots of hands-on hours in the surgical room. He has been able to systematize complex issues, such as the mutilated hand, as his reproducible good results show in such heterogenic population. He approaches all fields; from the pediatric hand to peripheral nerve surgery, tetraplegic patients and complex hand reconstruction to name a few. Also, he is always involved in the vanguard of complex topics as his latest works on CRPS show. All this raised my interest in how he approaches problem-solving on a daily basis and so it dragged me into applying to his program for residents to live the experience upfront.

How would you describe your experience from a professional point of view?

As a last year plastic surgery resident, the chance to discuss and break down the approach into the different fields of hand surgery with the Dr. Piñal, his associates and the other visitors has been very enriching. At all times he provides a space for case discussion and is open to answering any questions as well as proposing topics for discussion. The importance of hard work, developing a good surgical skill but also of knowing when to slow down and go back to the library… may sum up for my professional experience this month.

Madrid, the city’s personal impressions, places not to be missed, tips for new residents…

Madrid is a very modern city with a great gastronomic offer. There are many cultural activities and is very alive socially speaking. Also, you can find quiet spots and very nice parks for a walk.

Santander, the city’s personal impressions, places not to be missed, tips for new residents…

Santander is amazing. Very close to the clinic you can have one of the best tortilla de patatas I have ever tried… and believe me I have tried a lot! The city itself is very nice, but its close surroundings; the bay, the mountains and so one, make it even a more special place.