Endourology
LOCATION: Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, WV
PRECEPTOR: Chad Morley, MD
DURATION: 2-4 weeks
OFFERED: Continuously
MAXIMUM ENROLLMENT: 2
STATUS: Elective
Description:
This elective provides an immersive experience in endourology, including the evaluation and management of stone disease and urinary tract obstruction. Students will be involved in clinics, surgical procedures, and multidisciplinary care discussions. The rotation is ideal for students considering urology, surgery, or internal medicine with a focus on nephrology or urinary tract disorders.
Patient Care:
Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and manage patients with nephrolithiasis, ureteral strictures, and obstructive uropathy. Interpret imaging modalities such as non-contrast CT scans, KUBs, and renal ultrasounds. Explain the indications and techniques for ureteroscopy, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and laser lithotripsy. Participate in preoperative planning and postoperative management of patients undergoing endourologic procedures. Assist in intraoperative endoscopic procedures and familiarize with endoscopic instrumentation.
Medical Knowledge:
Describe the pathophysiology and management of urolithiasis and ureteral obstruction. Explain the principles of minimally invasive surgical management of urinary tract stones and strictures. Discuss current AUA guidelines on the evaluation and treatment of stone disease. Understand the pharmacologic and dietary prevention strategies for recurrent stones. Identify complications of endourologic procedures and their management.
Practice-Based Learning:
Seek evidence-based literature and incorporate best practices into patient care. Review surgical videos and relevant imaging in preparation for procedures. Present an endourology-related case or topic at a departmental conference. Reflect on clinical performance and integrate feedback to improve clinical skills.
Communication Skills:
Clearly explain diagnostic findings and treatment options to patients and families. Work effectively with residents, nurses, radiologists, and OR staff. Present clinical cases and operative plans clearly during team discussions. Document procedural details and patient encounters accurately.
Professionalism:
Maintain professionalism in high-volume surgical settings. Respect patient autonomy and maintain confidentiality at all times. Exhibit maturity and accountability in daily responsibilities. Demonstrate collegiality and teamwork with interdisciplinary staff.
Systems-Based Practice:
Identify and address barriers to care for patients with recurrent stone disease. Discuss the role of outpatient surgical centers and cost-effective care strategies. Recognize the importance of follow-up and prevention in chronic stone formers.
METHODS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES:
This is an in-person hospital-based rotation. Students will actively participate in: Outpatient Clinics: Evaluate patients presenting with urolithiasis and other obstructive pathologies. Inpatient Rounds: Participate in the care of post-op and admitted stone patients. Surgical Exposure: Observe and assist in URS, PCNL, stent placement, and stent removal procedures. Stone Conferences: Attend multidisciplinary stone case discussions and review metabolic evaluations. Didactic Sessions: Attend lectures on stone management and endourology techniques.
EXAMINATION PROCEDURES AND EVALUATION CRITERIA:
Formative Assessment:
A mid-rotation face-to-face evaluation will be conducted to review progress and provide constructive feedback.
Summative Assessment:
Final evaluation will include the standard elective student evaluation form and narrative that targets student’s completion of the rotation learning objectives.
PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF THE ROTATION:
Please contact Morgan Myers, morgan.myers@hsc.wvu.edu at least 2 weeks prior to the start of the rotation.