resident life

Stony Brook University Department of Anesthesiology

Residency Program

Welcome from the Chief Residents

Current Residents

Benefits

Graduate Medical Education at Stony Brook

Resident Access Portal

Gas Attack - Soccer Team

Welcome from the Chief Residents

Christian Martin, D.O.

Igor Pikus, M.D.

We would like to welcome you to the Department of Anesthesia at Stony Brook University Medical Center. Over the past several years, the department has evolved into one of the most diverse specialties within the hospital since anesthesiologists are no longer confined to the operating rooms. The vast resources found at Stony Brook and our affiliated VA Hospital permit each and every resident to gain the well-rounded experience necessary to become a strong clinician. We, as residents, have an opportunity to be exposed to and to participate in cutting edge patient care– from robotic prostatectomies to fluoroscopic guided intracerebral stent placements. Every resident easily fulfills the requirements set by the American Board of Anesthesiology prior to graduation. All residents are prepared to pursue the career of their choice, be it academics, private practice or fellowship training at competitive institutions.

In recent years the residents have taken an active role in their own education. In an era where post-graduate education calls for active learning, we decided to institute morning report several times per week, and once a month we hold Chief Rounds, in addition to our regular educational program. Monthly journal clubs teach us how to read and critically review journal articles. We, as residents, are well represented on our departmental Education Committee, and thus have significant input into our educational experience. Residents also have an opportunity to practice their skills and knowledge in the recently opened Clinical Skills Center, which houses a state of the art simulator run by the Anesthesia Department. During each session, we have an opportunity to review our own actions on tape and can build on each other’s experience. Well-known educators, such as Dr. Gallagher, the primary author of such texts as Anesthesia Unplugged and the Board Stiff series, help the residents prepare for their board examinations.

The residency program recognizes that the residents need to be exposed to all aspects of anesthesia. Our Chairman, Dr. Peter Glass and our Residency Program Director, Dr. Ellen Steinberg, are committed to giving each and every resident the opportunity to attend a major anesthesia meeting and all residents receive a generous educational allowance for this. These meetings present a unique opportunity to create new contacts and to learn from prominent people in the field.

Stony Brook University Medical Center is only 70 miles away from NYC. The city is easily accessible via car or train. Thus, residents at Stony Brook can enjoy the benefits of living in the suburbs, but still easily take advantage of the culture and excitement of the world’s greatest city. There are plenty of things to do on Long Island as well, such as golfing, fishing, sun-bathing on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, wine tasting and much more.

We are a diverse, but cohesive group and enjoy working and relaxing together. So come and see for yourself what the Stony Brook Anesthesia Program is all about. We look forward to meeting you.
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Benefits

The residents in the Department of Anesthesiology receive a salary that fits in the highest range in the country. The salary base is contractually increased annually. Full malpractice coverage of all clinical activity performed in the course of duty, basic and major medical insurance, dental insurance and a drug prescription plan are provided. Residents receive four weeks vacation leave per annum. Residents have the opportunity to attend a major national Anesthesiology meeting every year.

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Gas Attack Soccer Team

For the past two years, Residents, Attendings and Technicians have formed a team to participate in the Stony Brook Intramural Soccer League. This has been a demanding ("dusting off the cleats to rediscover moves we had ten to forty years ago could only get us so far against guys in their ‘prime’: 18-22 year-olds who eat, drink, sleep and exercise for a living") but rewarding experience. In 2006, the team managed to reach the semi-finals with a perfect record only to lose 3-0 in the final match. In 2007, opponents no longer looked at the team as a bunch of 'old-timers' who would be an easy victory but rather as the finalists from the previous season. Thus, the opposition was hungry for victory. That, plus a number of injuries hampered the team. While they managed to get into the semifinals and play well in the first half they were overcome by fatigue in the second half. But, finishing 4th among 16 teams was nothing to be ashamed of! And, there's always next year...
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