WHAT DO I NEED TO SUCCEED?

WHAT DO I NEED TO SUCCEED?

So, you’re interested in matching into a surgical subspecialty? That’s awesome! Unfortunately, these residency spots are some of the most sought after in the match. Not to worry, with the help of Pocket Pimped and our resources, we’ll make sure you’re prepared to get the residency spot of your choice. Whether your aspirations are to match into orthopedic surgery or general surgery, there are certain resources you need to be competitive and prepared to crush your sub-I’s and audition rotations. We’ve compiled a list of products we think are important for you to have to be helpful, prepared, and professional on all of your surgical rotations!

“If you fail to prepare, be prepared to fail”

 

Trauma Shears

            If there is ONE thing you need aside from Pocket Pimped to be ready for rotations, it’s a nice pair of trauma shears. From removing clothes in the trauma bay, trimming bandages, or helping with dressing changes in the morning, shears are your universal tool! Pro tip: I’d buy several pairs so you make sure you always have them! The Clauss trauma shears are by far the best for the affordable pairs. If you're responsible and can handle having nice things, the Leatherman Raptor Shears are unmatched!

                              

 Clauss Trauma Shears                               LEATHERMAN - Raptor Trauma Shears 

 

Pocket Pimped: Orthopedic Surgery

            It goes without saying, but this is the best text to help you look like a stud on rotations and understand what is important in Orthopedic Surgery. It contains the 1500 questions you WILL be asked while on rotations, and is sure to make you shine both in the hospital and in the operating room. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, which means you should always be prepared!

 

Handbook of Fractures

            This book is paramount for the details of specific fracture management. A great desk reference to have at home or in your bag, it provides detailed reading about the diagnosis, pathophysiology and management of just about every fracture imaginable. This is a must have resource, but not a must-have-on-you at all times resource. 

 

Netter's Concise Orthopaedic Anatomy, Updated Edition (Netter Basic Science)

            We all know anatomy is king, and sure, you crushed anatomy in medical school, but that was years ago. This book highlights the pertinent orthopedic anatomy, physical exam maneuvers and reviews some of the very basic facts about joint replacements and other orthopedic procedures. This book is best for a quick review and anatomy refresher.

 

Miller's Review of Orthopaedics

            Miller’s is a great resource, but is certainly much larger and in-depth than others review texts. This is an actual textbook, best for reading at home and for a more thorough understanding. Parts of this text may be too in-depth for the average medical student. If you have the time, and understanding, you could really get a headstart by reading this book. This book finds its niche when it’s time to prepare for the OITE (in-training service exam) for junior residents.

 

Orthobullets

            FREE!!!! Orthobullets has been a game changer in the landscape of orthopedic education. You can download the app called “Bullets”, just be cognizant about being on your phone all the time. An abundance of information, meant to serve the orthopedic resident.

Moleskine Case Notebook 

            Every great resident or student has their own “little black book.” If you’re a student, it’s great for jotting down notes about cases, things you need to look up overnight, or your responsibilities for that week. If you’re a resident, this is your case logbook and it becomes sacred. Don’t’ lose that little black book. Moleskine notebooks are the way to go, they’re durable and the perfect size for your pocket.

 

Trauma Shears

            If there is ONE thing you need aside from Pocket Pimped to be ready for rotations, it’s a nice pair of trauma shears. From removing clothes in the trauma bay, trimming bandages, or helping with dressing changes in the morning, shears are your universal tool! Pro tip: I’d buy several pairs so you make sure you always have them! The Clauss trauma shears are by far the best for the affordable pairs. If you're responsible and can handle having nice things, the Leatherman Raptor Shears are unmatched!

                              

 Clauss Trauma Shears                               LEATHERMAN - Raptor Trauma Shears 

 

Pocket Pimped: General Surgery

            It goes without saying, but this is the best text to help you look like a stud on rotations and understand what is important in General Surgery. It contains the 1500 questions you WILL be asked while on rotations, and is sure to make you shine both in the hospital and in the operating room. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, which means you should always be prepared!  

 

Sabiston Textbook of Surgery: The Biological Basis of Modern Surgical Practice

            Comprehensive. This text is a complete look at all aspects of general surgery. Again, a resource that is too large to carry around with you all the time, but a great one to have at home. Best for the general surgery resident, or the gunner student who has a great understanding and is looking for more.

 

Top Knife: Art and Craft in Trauma Surgery

            A must-read for any general surgeon, especially during your intern year. This book will teach you how to care for a badly wounded patient in the trauma bay and on the way to the operating room, organize yourself and your team, and do battle with some of the most vicious injuries. Great read!

 

Moleskine Case Notebook 

            Every great resident or student has their own “little black book.” If you’re a student, it’s great for jotting down notes about cases, things you need to look up overnight, or your responsibilities for that week. If you’re a resident, this is your case logbook and it becomes sacred. Don’t’ lose that little black book. Moleskine notebooks are the way to go, they’re durable and the perfect size for your pocket.

 

  

The House of God

            Iconic. A look into the life of five interns at one of the United States’ most renowned teaching hospitals. This is a book that should be read by every resident at some point in their life. 

 

When Breath Becomes Air

            Inspiring. This book is a memoir of Paul Kalanithi, a young neurosurgeon, who faced insurmountable odds. Another book that should be read by anyone entering a career in medicine.


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