International Arthroscopic Symposium in Ciego de Ávila, Cuba

In October 2007, Dr.Stetson and his team attained special medical permits to travel to Cuba for the 5th Annual International Arthroscopic Symposium in Ciego de Ávila. The international arthroscopic team included four surgeons from the United States: Dr. Gene Muse, Dr. Scott Fischer, Dr. Drew Miller, Dr. William Stetson and his two pre-medical interns, Brittany and Emily, as well as Dr. Eduard Buess from Switzerland. View the videos of the trip: Video 1 | Video 2 | Video 3

Prior to traveling to Cuba, they collected arthroscopic medical equipment with the intention of donating it to the hospitals in the provinces of Havana and Ciego de Ávila.

At the Symposium in Ciego de Ávila, the team distributed equipment and the U.S. physicians presented lectures on anatomy, proper arthroscopic technique and  on how to conduct physical examinations. Proper pre and post operative patient education was also discussed.

In addition to equipment donation, the U.S. surgical team also demonstrated how to perform arthroscopic shoulder surgery. All of the surgeries were broadcasted via microphone and video feed to medical students in an adjacent auditorium. Cuban physicians observed the U.S. surgeons perform surgery in the operating room.

During the stay in Ciego de Ávila, Dr. Stetson and Dr. Buess were honored by the Providence President with humanitarian awards for their contributions to the people of Cuba.

The entire team would like to thank Erica Stetson for making this trip possible. Her diligent work in organizing and planning this medical mission allowed the team to experience what they would not have known; the wonders of Cuba and the love shared with the people of Cuba.

During our stay in Ciego de Ávila, Dr. Stetson and Dr. Buess were honored by the Providence President with humanitarian awards for their contributions and inspiration. It was a heart-warming experience.

View the videos of the trip: Video 1 | Video 2 | Video 3

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