A Day in the Life of a Neurosurgery Resident

Nathaniel Ellens, MD, shares insight into what a day is like for a neurosurgery resident at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Learn more about the

[iloveSUVs]

In med school I did a Neurosurgery elective just to see what it was like. The chief resident didn't go home for 6 days straight. Yet he still loved it. I decided NS was not for me, but respect to those who choose this life.

[neilpatel]

What a motivated guy. Fits in runs to and from work to stay active even while working 15 hours a day.

[señoracynthia]

He makes the day seem like any normal day when in fact he's doing operations one after the other. 😮 Just the breadth of knowledge, the ability to sustain prolonged physical and mental effort, and the patience needed daily. Salute to you doctor ❤🫡

[mukund]

Well he is more or less protected against sun-damage because it’s dark on his way in and out of the hospital. Kudos to this man and his dedication :)

[Wjeremiahh]

This guy seems so cool, if I were to meet him outside of the hospital I would never know he’s a NEUROSURGEON. 🤝🏼

[DavidT_]

This man leaves work and has more energy and positivity than I do when I'm just starting my day. Thank you Dr Ellens for what you do.

[MultiCinderella]

Our son Joe works with you. Thank you for all your dedication and expertise!

[Imfrommars]

I have deep respect for those who work in this field. You all are a special breed!

[EssaysCollege]

Seriously this guy is super impressive! A real hero for the community.

[marilynknight]

I am so thankful for Neurosurgery
I just had DOUBLE back surgery 2 day operation. ❤❤❤ cannot say enough . Thank you for giving me my life back .
God Bless ALL OF YOU
❤❤❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[chlorineaunty]

to all the med studs, aspiring med studs, and everyone else, never give up! IT'S ALL POSSIBLE✨. Thank you UR Medicine for this piece💖

[Bald_Matt]

These are the types of people you want working in the OR. Love the dedication, very motivational!

[bhnatlasfox]

This guy just radiates confidence you can see he definitely love what he does. He is going to do big things in the future

[KandeShack]

I think all Neurosurgeons are amazing! I got three opinions for my back surgeon and am so happy I decided on the one I did. I had ALIF surgery (L5/S1) two months ago. I wish I hadn’t waited so long. After being in Pain Management for 16 years, I love that I’m pretty much pain free!

[Retiredtraveler]

I'm a retired Navy Nurse, I respect & admire the hard work you put in to get ahead in life. Looong hours. I remember the 6AM madhouse getting patients prepared for the OR back in 88-90. Much has changed since then (anesthesia, same day surgery) but still a lot of hard work & physical nuances to be successful. 👍👍👍

[Padoinky]

Dude is a machine…assume if he went to M and then to UR SofM or if he’s just doing his neuro residency at UofR Strong Memorial Hospital, he’s a very bright guy w/ superior motor functions

[tonyb]

I worked as a welder with similar hours on places that were built for Hospitals and even on repairing medical equipment. Getting to meet similar work minded people was king! The doctors that wanted custom instruments made or modified was my favorite.

[haildrreaper]

I was on the road to being a Surgeon but my Surgeon Mentor told me to run as fast as I could and I realized why because my home and life would be the hospital even though I love the field of Medicine. The Surgeon lifestyle can be overwhelming.

[muskurahatt]

I am proud of my son he is also a doctor like this guy

[tazdecto]

Kudos to you as busy as you are day in and out and still get ur exercise in👍