From Bolivia to Wisconsin: The Resident Education Program Takes Flight
In a groundbreaking collaboration this fall, the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Neurological Surgery will welcome the first Bolivian neurosurgeons as part of a one-month observership program. Dr. Lucy Ivonne Pérez, one of the two neurosurgeons selected, shared her excitement about the opportunity,
"I am convinced that this program represents an invaluable step in my professional training and will allow me to achieve excellence in my field.”
For Dr. Pérez, the chance to learn from world-renowned neurosurgeons, observe advanced surgical techniques, and experience innovative treatment strategies firsthand will significantly expand her knowledge base and hone her skills. "The experience will also help me strengthen my surgical skills to provide the best possible care to my patients," she added.
Dr. Pérez, along with Dr. Gabriela Contreras, also from Bolivia, is part of a select group chosen for this joint program, which is a collaboration between the UW-Madison Department of Neurosurgery, the Neurosurgery and Neurology Institute (NNI) of Solidarity Bridge, and the Neurosurgical Societies of both Bolivia and Paraguay. They were chosen for the observership due to their commitment to learning and active participation in the online Resident Education program.
Their selection marks a significant milestone, as the third phase in the UW Madison/NNI Neurosurgery Resident Education program; a program that began in 2022 to support the education of Bolivian and Paraguayan neurosurgery residents through bi-weekly lectures, hands-on training, and opportunity for observership in the US at UW-Madison.
This week, Dr. Pérez and Dr. Contreras joined 25 other residents, medical students, and neurosurgeons in La Paz, Bolivia to participate in the second in-person course as part of the Resident Education program, focusing on neuroendoscopy and CSF shunt management.
The course was a resounding success, drawing neurosurgeons from five Bolivian departments—La Paz, Santa Cruz, Sucre, Potosí, and Oruro. These residents and new doctors were eager to acquire advanced skills in neuroendoscopy and CSF shunt management, and practice their techniques in lab simulations. The highlight for many was the opportunity to observe two endoscopic neurosurgeries with live instruction, an experience that bridged theory and practice. Additionally, residents presented real cases from their own institutions, receiving input and feedback from the NNI team based on the latest research and best practices.
Course Facilitators: Dr. Bermans Iskandar, Dr. Robert Dempsey, Dr. Joyce Koueik
This 2-day course was held at the Materno Infantil Hospital of Caja Nacional de Salud in La Paz, Bolivia. The course was led by Dr. Bermans Iskandar with support from: UW-Madison resident Dr. Joyce Koueik; department chair Dr. Robert Dempsey; Dr. Carolina Sandoval-Garcia from the University of Minnesota; Dr. Victor Lu from the University of Miami; and the NNI leadership team, including Dr. Richard Moser, Maria Eugenia Brockmann, and Lindsay Doucette. The course was hosted by the faculty of the Materno Infantil Hospital, including Bolivian Neurosurgical Society president, Dr. Martín Aliaga.
The Resident Education program’s overarching goal is to supplement the neurosurgical education of Bolivian and Paraguayan residents, connecting them to the latest research and providing in-depth training in specialized areas. It also aims to foster international collaboration with other practitioners, a mission that aligns with the goals of the Bolivian Neurosurgical Society.
"It was inspirational to see the excitement of the residents and new doctors in attendance, the bi-directional learning taking place was incredibly encouraging," Dr. Dempsey remarked.
As the program continues, there is great anticipation for the future, with Dr. Pérez and Dr. Contreras soon to spend time in Wisconsin and pave the way for the Bolivian and Paraguayan residents who will follow.
Dr. Joyce Koueik and Dr. Victor Lu, both fifth-year residents who played key roles in organizing and leading the in-person course, were visibly enthusiastic about encouraging Dr. Pérez, Dr. Contreras, and the other participants to explore the myriad possibilities that lie ahead in their academic and professional journeys. One of the most remarkable outcomes of this program is the way it unites diverse individuals with a common passion and commitment to improving neurosurgical care for the patients who need it most.
