Today will always remain one of the most memorable days of my surgical journey. I had the incredible opportunity to assist in my very first Commando surgery—a major head and neck oncologic procedure involving a maxillectomy followed by reconstruction using a PMMC (Pectoralis Major Myocutaneous) flap. It was an intense six-hour surgery that lasted from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and every single minute in the operating theatre was filled with learning, responsibility, and inspiration.
Standing in the operating room throughout the entire procedure, observing every step closely and actively assisting, gave me a completely new perspective on the art and science of surgery. Reading about complex operations in textbooks and journals is one thing, but witnessing them unfold in real time is an entirely different experience. Every incision had a purpose, every movement demanded precision, and every decision reflected years of knowledge, experience, and teamwork.
The surgery itself was a remarkable demonstration of surgical planning and execution. The precision involved in performing a maxillectomy, followed by meticulous reconstruction with a PMMC flap, highlighted the complexity of head and neck oncologic surgery. It reinforced the importance of not only removing disease effectively but also restoring form and function to give patients the best possible quality of life.
What amazed me the most was the dedication and coordination of the entire surgical team. From the lead surgeons and anesthesiologists to the nursing staff and technicians, everyone worked seamlessly with a shared goal. Their calmness under pressure, attention to detail, and unwavering focus reminded me that successful surgery is never the achievement of one individual—it is the result of exceptional teamwork and mutual trust.
Despite standing for six continuous hours, I never once felt exhausted. Instead, I found myself becoming more engaged and motivated with every passing moment. Time seemed to pass unnoticed because I was completely absorbed in the procedure. The operating theatre felt like a classroom where every second offered a new lesson. Those six hours taught me more than many days spent reading, reminding me that true surgical education comes from observation, participation, and hands-on experience.
Today also reminded me why I chose the field of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery. It is a specialty that combines intricate anatomy, advanced surgical techniques, critical decision-making, and the opportunity to make a profound difference in patients’ lives. Being able to contribute, even as an assistant, to a surgery that has the potential to restore health and hope is a privilege that I will always cherish.
I am deeply grateful to my mentors and senior surgeons for giving me the opportunity to be part of such a significant procedure. Their trust, patience, and willingness to teach are invaluable. Every operation they allow me to participate in shapes me into a better surgeon, not only by improving my technical understanding but also by teaching professionalism, humility, discipline, and compassion.
This experience has further strengthened my determination to continue learning, improving my skills, and embracing every opportunity to grow. I know this is only the beginning of a long and challenging journey, but moments like these remind me that every hour spent studying, every late night, and every sacrifice is worth it. There is still so much to learn, and I look forward to every new challenge with enthusiasm and gratitude.
Today wasn’t just about assisting in my first Commando surgery—it was about taking another meaningful step toward becoming the surgeon I aspire to be. Every milestone, no matter how small or large, contributes to the journey. I leave the operating theatre today feeling grateful, humbled, excited, and more motivated than ever before.
Here’s to lifelong learning, continuous growth, and many more opportunities to serve patients with skill, compassion, and dedication. One unforgettable surgery, countless lessons, and a renewed commitment to excellence.
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