Article by Phoenix writer Kevin Kirley ’25:
On January 29, 20 members of the Health Science Club participated in a suturing class taught by Dr. Robert Bacigalupo.
After Dr. Bacigalupo introduced the instruments used in suturing, students were able to learn the specific technique to create interrupted sutures and square knots. Practicing on a banana, students were carefully instructed on how to suture a laceration. Medical students are taught this method because it provides them with the practice and skills to be able to close a wound with sutures.
An alumnus from Kellenberg Memorial High School, Dr. Bacigalupo was happy to return to his alma mater for the second time to teach his skill. He is an oral surgeon who attended Villanova University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in biology. He then attended Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine where he graduated with the distinction of ranking first in his class.
Dr. Bacigalupo thought it beneficial to provide aspiring STEM majors with useful tools that could carry them through their college years. Senior Gianna Siasoco reflects on the experience: “I was always interested in the medical field, and this suturing class allowed me to grow my interest in being a surgeon in the future.”
Mrs. Frem, the leader of the Health Science Club and the one who made this experience possible, said that the “Students remained focused and determined for close to two hours in the biology lab.” The dedication and maturity of the Kellenberg students were clear during the class, which made the entire process run efficiently and effectively.
Kellenberg would like to thank Dr. Bacigalupo for donating his time to teaching the next generation valuable skills regarding his work.
