“I chose to visit Dr. Del Piñal due to his nationally and internationally renowned unit”.

Dr. Alvaro Cabello, 29, Spain, degree in Medicine for the University of Granada, made his rotation at Piñal y Asociados last Spring. Currently he is doing his residency at the Universidad de Navarra Clinic.

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

I chose to visit Dr. Del Piñal due to his nationally and internationally renowned unit. Indeed, a key reason were his conferences at hand surgery and microsurgery congresses throughout the world, which finally led me to apply for the rotation. On an international scale it’s well known that Dr. Del Piñal’s institute of hand and plastiic surgery is one of the centers offering a wider range of hand pathologies.

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

The professionalism of the team of Dr. Piñal is exquisite. I should firstly highlight the teaching of Dr. Piñal both at the operating room and during consultations and meetings. At all times there is full concern so the residents can understand the surgical plan and the development of the procedures.

Also, there is always a camera system available that tracks the microsurgical procedures on a screen. However, when possible, the residents actively participate as assistants in surgeries. Dr. Del Piñal explains the details and technical advices to perform the different procedures. This is difficult to imagine in most centers of excellence, including those of a purely educational or university profile.

Furthermore, all residents participate in the discussion and presentation of different scientific sessions that take place during the week.

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

Despite being born in Cordova and pursuing my Medicine degree in Granada, I recognize the charm of Santander. As it is said, it is one of the most charming cities in Spain. Running along the promenade and Puerto Chico or the Sardinero beaches is a real pleasure. It always smells fresh, a scent of the sea. It is a perfect city for sea, sailing and windsurfing lovers. Delve through the streets and try the local anchovies and shellfish … they are also more than recommended!.

Anything else?.

All indications of the team on where to stay, where to eat or how to get around the city are worth to be considered. They also have several acquaintances who rent apartments for short periods, perfect for a rotation time. Otherwise it could be a headache. Ask someone in the team via e-mail with in advance and you will nail it…

Thank you all for opening the doors of their homes, it is a pleasure to feel like home, being a member of the institute in the operating room, at the clinic super library, playing squash or having a drink in a bar!.