Ryan Azarkhail, ’23, always had a passion for human anatomy, as well as a desire to provide direct patient care combined with hands-on procedures. His interests played a part in the research paper he helped author, “Use of Indocyanine Green Fluorescent Imaging in the Assessment of a Tongue Flap After Lateral Hemiglossectomy,” published in Cureus.
Working in collaboration with a team led by Cleveland Clinic Florida (CCF) surgery resident Lisandro Montorfano, MD, the research deals with the real-time assessment of indocyanine green (ICG) angiography as an imaging modality that can be used to assess intraoperative tissue perfusion, used in this case with reconstruction after tongue cancer surgery. ICG dye has proven to be safe and cost-effective during complex reconstructions, aiding in postoperative recovery.
Ryan was inspired by his experience in clinicals and Dr. Montorfano’s advice: “Be respectful, be curious, ask questions, show interest, be resourceful, know your anatomy, read before your cases, be prepared to answer questions, and stay late for cases. Work hard to make your dreams come true.”
After finishing core rotations at Atlanta Medical Center, Ryan is looking forward to his fourth year at RUSM and elective rotations. His goal is to match into a residency that will allow him to explore innovative medical techniques.
What are his recommendations to fellow Rossies? “Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Push yourself to network with residents, inquire about research opportunities, and put in the extra time and effort to distinguish yourself. You get out what you put in.”
Sources
Montorfano L, Bordes S J, Azarkhail R, et al. (May 26, 2021) Use of Indocyanine Green Fluorescent Imaging in the Assessment of a Tongue Flap After Lateral Hemiglossectomy. Cureus 13(5): e15248. doi:10.7759/cureus.15248
