Clinical Electives Abroad: Cardiology Angioplasty & Stent placement and OBGYN laparoscopic Fibroid Removal clinical observation at UMMC

As an international medical student from Universitas Airlangga, one of Indonesia's leading institutions of higher education, I recently had the privilege of undertaking clinical rotations in the Cardiology and Obstetrics & Gynecology (OBGYN) departments at University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) for one month. The duration of the clinical elective was from 10th January to 9th February, 2024. This opportunity has been an eye-opening and enriching experience, providing invaluable insights into two crucial fields of medicine. 

University Malaya Medical Centre/private document

University Malaya (UM), Malaysia's oldest and premier institution of higher learning, was established in 1949. With a rich history of academic excellence and innovation, UM is located in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur and offers a diverse and dynamic environment for students from around the world. UM has steadily improved its position in the QS World University Rankings, frequently placing within the top 100 universities worldwide. In recent years, UM has been ranked as the highest Malaysian university on this list. Adjacent to the Faculty of Medicine is the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), a premier teaching hospital and healthcare facility. Established in 1968, UMMC is one of the largest and most comprehensive medical centers in Malaysia. It serves as a vital training ground for medical students, offering a wide range of clinical services and cutting-edge medical care.

Cardiac Unit/private document

I had the esteemed opportunity to complete my clinical rotations for two weeks in the Cardiology Department, part of the Department of Medicine at University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) under the mentorship of the Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Samshol Bin Sukhari. During my rotation in the Cardiology Department at University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), I had the opportunity to work in various specialized wards and units, each focusing on different aspects of cardiac care and observed a variety of procedures including angiographies and angioplasties for treating coronary artery disease, echocardiograms for assessing heart structure and function, and cardiac stress tests for evaluating cardiac performance under physical exertion. Additionally, I witnessed electrophysiological studies and ablations for diagnosing and treating arrhythmias, as well as the administration of thrombolytic therapy for acute myocardial infarction. Each of these procedures provided invaluable hands-on learning experiences and deepened my understanding of cardiac care.

Coronary Care Unit (CCU)/private document

My first week round was in CCU with my supervisor and his other esteemed colleagues. Coronary Care Unit (CCU) is dedicated to patients with acute coronary syndromes such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) and unstable angina, as well as other critical heart conditions. This unit is equipped with advanced monitoring systems like continuous ECG monitors, defibrillators, and ventilators. Patients are admitted to the CCU for severe cardiac issues requiring intensive monitoring and life-support technologies, such as cardiogenic shock, acute heart failure, and life-threatening arrhythmias. I got to join the ward rounds in Rawatan Akut or Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) Ward with the Houseman and the residents along with the consultants in the first week. 

The ward provides immediate and comprehensive care for patients arriving through the emergency department. Conditions commonly treated include myocardial infarction, unstable angina, cardiogenic shock, and life-threatening arrhythmias. The ward utilizes advanced medical technology such as continuous ECG monitors, defibrillators, ventilators, intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP), and coronary angiography suites. During my rotation, I observed and assisted in critical procedures including emergency angioplasty and stent placement, thrombolytic therapy, and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). 

This experience highlighted the importance of rapid assessment and intervention in acute cardiac care. My time in the ACS Ward significantly enhanced my understanding of managing severe cardiac conditions and performing life-saving procedures.There was Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU), which specializes in the intensive care of patients with severe cardiac conditions, including those who have undergone complex cardiac surgeries or are experiencing severe decompensated heart failure. Patients in the CICU require close monitoring and immediate medical interventions due to critical conditions like severe heart failure, post-cardiac surgery complications, and high-risk arrhythmias.  

Cardiology Ward /private document