PVM Family Program Series “Takes a Peek” at Technology Behind Minimally Invasive Surgeries

Friday, November 9, 2018

Dr. Micha Simons, clinical assistant professor of small animal surgery, helps children learn how to use an endoscope with a Teddy Bear during her PVM Family Program Series presentation called “Let’s Take a Peak.”

Children had a chance to play the role of an expert surgeon last week during the second of three sessions that are part of the PVM Family Program Series. “Let’s Take a Peek” was the title of the presentation Thursday, November 1, by Dr. Micha Simons, clinical assistant professor of small animal surgery. Dr. Simons demonstrated how tiny cameras can be used for diagnostic purposes and to perform minimally invasive surgeries.

More than 40 people attended the interactive session that was designed especially for children. Four veterinary students assisted Dr. Simons as she gave the children hands-on opportunities to work with the high tech equipment. Dr. Simons also taught the attendees about the different types of cameras used for different types of procedures and surgeries, including thoracoscopy and endoscopy. The children were able to try out their own skills by inserting an endoscope inside a large teddy bear’s mouth and down to a simulated stomach, where they could see what the teddy bear had “eaten” – in this case anything from plastic toy horses to toy snakes.

A parent watches as children work with special tools used in minimally invasive surgery, and seek to grab one of the small candy pieces situated inside a stuffed animal.

The children who participated mentioned that their favorite part was being able to use the cameras themselves. The event also generated positive feedback from parents.

The next event in the PVM Family Program Series will be on March 7, when Liane Shaw, RVT, diagnostic imaging instructional technologist, leads a presentation entitled, “Don’t Give Dental Care the Bush Off.” The talk will include discussion about the teeth of various species, and how veterinarians and veterinary nurses care for them. Liane also will teach audience members about how to care for their own pet’s teeth. Click here for more information.

Writer(s): Amanda McCormick, PVM Communications Intern, and Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu