How much should I really know?

[Guest]

How much should a sub-i really know?


I've been reading up on my patients, learning the anatomy and steps in upcoming cases, and trying to read relevant papers. I understand that I won't know nearly enough to compare to residents right now, but it's hard to gauge where I'm expected to be at as a sub-i. Answering questions incorrectly never really bothered me and it mores lights a fire under my ass to study more.

[Guest]

Impressing people as a subI has little to how much neurosurgery knowledge you have and more about how much common sense you have. Know how to read the room, silently be helpful, know your patients, the surgery they are getting and basic steps of it. If someone wants to ask you knowledge questions they will always be able to keep asking until you don’t know.

I have never once seen a program be floored by the knowledge of a sub-I. I have seen programs love a sub-I and fight to match then because of their personalities and positive attitudes

[Guest]

As someone closely involved in the match process at my institution, I 100% agree with the post above. As long as you do your part preparing for the case you are showing up to, the most important thing to demonstrate as a sub-I is self-awareness. (Almost) Anyone can learn neurosurgery. It is harder to teach someone how to behave professionally and work with others.

[Guest]

Agree with above poster. Show up early, leave late, anticipate the residents’ needs so ur helpful. Thats most of what will make them want you on their crew next year.

I found Neurosurgery Explained to be an easy, fast read, and to hit on many popular pimping points.