In Focus: Interview with Prof. Raphael Guzman, Head of Clinic and Chief Physician of Neurosurgery at USB

The main campus of the Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area is home to numerous innovative companies in the biotech and healthtech sectors. The University Hospital Basel also maintains a branch here, offering a forward-looking learning environment through the Skills Lab Simulation Centre. We reached out to Prof. Raphael Guzman, Head of Clinic and Chief Physician of Neurosurgery at the University Hospital Basel, to learn more about the benefits of the new Skills Lab.

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  1. What functional and spatial requirements were central from your perspective for a contemporary Skills and Simulation Centre?
    For us in neurosurgery, flexibility and modularity are crucial. The spaces must accommodate both microsurgery courses for residents and suturing courses for students. Key considerations include height-adjustable dissection tables, optimal lighting, clear sightlines for instructors and observers, and the integration of VR and simulation modules. Additionally, a modern technical infrastructure — stable networks, monitors, cameras, and sufficient power outlets — is essential to run courses in parallel and conduct digital training efficiently.
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  2. ‍What differences, innovations, or developments does the new Skills Lab offer compared to the previous one?
    The main difference is that we now have a single location encompassing all functionalities. Previously, several smaller Skills Labs were decentralised across the USB and other locations. These labs also lacked advanced technical capabilities. Now, we have a modern, centralised environment, which allows for shorter distances, better oversight, and a motivating learning atmosphere.
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  3. ‍How important are visual connections, orientation, and internal circulation for the daily operation of a simulation and training centre?
    Very important. Clear sightlines enable efficient teaching, while intuitive circulation prevents interruptions and facilitates the flow of materials and people. This saves time and significantly improves operational workflow.
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  4. ‍What signal effect does the new Skills Lab have, in your view, for students, instructors, and external partners?
    The new Skills Lab conveys innovation and professionalism at USB. Students and physicians recognise that hands-on training is a top priority, while instructors benefit from optimised working conditions. External partners see that we use state-of-the-art training technologies and deliver practice-oriented training at the highest level. This builds trust, facilitates collaborations, and demonstrates that we are a leading institution in medical education and simulation.
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  5. ‍What significance does the Switzerland Innovation Park Basel Area location have for the future development of medical training? What advantages does the SIP offer?
    The SIP location is ideal for innovation and technology transfer. We benefit from proximity to high-tech start-ups, research institutions, and industry partners. This facilitates the integration of new medical technologies, VR, and simulation tools and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration. The environment inspires both students and instructors, enabling the Skills Lab to function not only as a training centre but also as an innovation hub for medical education.
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  6. ‍Are there spatial elements or architectural decisions that you particularly hope will improve efficiency and workflow in daily operations?
    Yes, especially modular, open spaces that can be flexibly adapted for different course formats. Visual connections between instructors and participants, separate access points for materials and personnel, and strategically placed technical stations greatly facilitate workflow. The integration of VR stations without interfering with physical training areas also improves efficiency and allows parallel use of different training modules. I expect this will ensure smooth operations, short transitions between theory, practice, and simulation, and significant relief in daily operations.

           Read more about the USB Skills Lab project here.

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