Fundamentals of surgery

The Fundamentals of Surgery course aims to provide students with a comprehensive and integrated understanding of the main surgical disciplines, combining theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and clinical judgment. The course is designed to prepare future professionals to face the challenges of modern surgical practice with confidence, responsibility, and scientific rigor.
The General Surgery module (MED/18 - 5 ECTS) forms the core of the course. Students acquire essential knowledge of common surgical diseases and basic operative techniques, learning how to manage patients before and after surgery, recognize surgical emergencies, and prevent or treat complications. This module develops foundational skills applicable across all surgical specialties.
The Cardiac Surgery module (MED/23 - 1 ECTS) introduces students to key cardiovascular conditions and operative techniques, focusing on cardiac physiology, perioperative patient management, and recognition of complications. It provides essential tools for approaching complex and delicate interventions.
The Neurosurgery module (MED/27 - 1 ECTS) covers the principles of surgery of the central and peripheral nervous system. Students learn to assess neurological conditions requiring surgical intervention, understand major neuro-surgical procedures, and manage patients in highly complex clinical settings.
The Maxillofacial Surgery module (MED/29 - 1 ECTS) focuses on surgical techniques for the craniofacial region, including trauma, congenital malformations, and oncologic conditions. Students develop skills in case analysis and planning of reconstructive and functional procedures.
The Plastic Surgery module (MED/19 - 1 ECTS) provides knowledge of reconstructive and aesthetic surgery principles, from the management of traumatic injuries to skin grafts and flaps, integrating technical precision with clinical sensitivity.
Finally, the Thoracic Surgery module (MED/21 - 1 ECTS) introduces the main thoracic and respiratory conditions, emphasizing surgical indications, intervention planning, and perioperative patient management. This module completes the overview of core surgical specialties.
In summary, the Fundamentals of Surgery course offers a multidimensional and integrated view of modern surgery, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and decision-making abilities needed to navigate the surgical field with competence and confidence.)

By the end of the Fundamentals of Surgery course, students will be able to:
Understand the main principles and common pathologies of general, cardiac, thoracic, plastic, neurosurgery, and maxillofacial surgery.
Assess surgical patients, recognize emergencies, and plan appropriate interventions.
Apply basic surgical techniques and procedural skills safely and effectively.
Integrate multidisciplinary knowledge to make informed clinical decisions.
Demonstrate professional behavior, ethical awareness, and effective communication in surgical settings.