XII AIMS Masterclasses

FRONTIERS OF LIFE:
Humanitarian and Intensive Medicine

29TH OCTOBER, 2025

Frontiers of Life:
Humanitarian and Intensive Medicine

In a world increasingly shaped by instability, displacement, and disaster, medicine is called to respond not only with technical precision, but with profound ethical commitment. This edition of the AIMS Masterclasses invites participants to explore the evolving role of medical practice in contexts of crisis, urgency, and catastrophe. From war zones to refugee camps, from natural disasters to humanitarian missions, this edition reflects on how medicine adapts, intervenes, and perseveres when the boundaries of safety, resources, and certainty collapse.

As global challenges intensify, so does the responsibility of those who care. Humanitarian and intensive medicine stand at the intersection of science and solidarity, demanding not only clinical excellence but also resilience, empathy, and moral clarity.

Join us in this intellectual and human journey, where saving lives becomes a testament to courage, and where medicine reaches beyond borders to uphold the very essence of humanity.

Speakers & Moderator

From war zones to emergency rooms, their stories illuminate the places where medicine meets humanity. Discover the speakers who embody courage, compassion, and expertise at the edge of crisis.

General surgeon and Regional Trauma Advisor at the World Health Organization.
Humanitarian infectious disease specialist in outbreak response in Portuguese-speaking countries.
Psychologist and humanitarian activist with extensive experience in international crisis missions.
Moderator

Workshops

Please note this section will be continuously updated until the opening of the selection period.

Would you know what to do in a situation of pediatric trauma? Are you curious about how to deal with cases like this? Then this workshop is meant for you! Here you will be faced with real-life scenarios that will not only boost your clinical reasoning but also allow you to get a better understanding of the specificities in pediatrics. Don’t miss out on this workshop! Next time, you will know what to do!

Location:

Room 51-A, EEM

Coordination:

Henrique Sintra Coelho

“Do you already know how to diagnose an Acute Myocardial Infarction on an ECG, but would like to experience it in a real clinical setting? Can you decide when to send a patient to the cath lab, but have no idea what actually happens inside?
In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to practice taking a patient history and performing a physical exam to diagnose and choose the best treatment for your patient, using the BodyInteract simulation table! In addition, you’ll be able to train practical skills on the Mentice endovascular intervention simulator.
If you’re ready to find out what it feels like to be an interventional cardiologist, this workshop is for you!”

Location:

Simulation Center, ERS

Coordination:

Daniel Cazeiro & Marta Vilela

Have you ever wanted to learn how to intubate a patient? Do you want to know how to properly maintain an airway? This is your chance to practice this useful and important technique with a hands-on approach, using adult airway models, so if a patient stops breathing you’ll know exactly what to do!

Location:

Anf. Prof. Marck Athias, 3rd Floor

Coordination:

Paula Fernandes

Advanced Life Support (ALS) is as complex as it is important. Its inappropriate approach can be life-threatening.

In this workshop, you will be able to learn and practice on a realistic model the ALS algorithm which is used during cardiac arrest and includes emergency monitoring, heart defibrillation, team management skills and so on. Come and learn how to save a life!

Location:

Palliative Care Room, 5th floor

Coordination:

João Rosado

Have you always wanted to know how to use a sonograph? Can you only see different shades on the ultrasound screen? Then this is the right workshop for you!
Ultrasound is an imaging procedure that can be performed anytime, anywhere. This practical workshop will teach you the key concepts of ultrasound and allow you to develop essential skills!

Location:

Room 9, EEM

Coordination:

André Paulino

Step into the world of clinical practice with this interactive workshop powered by Body Interact. Simulating real-life patient scenarios, it lets you practice diagnosing conditions, making decisions, and managing treatment plans in a risk-free, hands-on environment. Perfect for building confidence and preparing for your first clinical experiences.

Location:

Simulation Center, ERS

Coordination:

Anabela Oliveira

Have you ever wanted to perform a biopsy?
This workshop provides you with the opportunity to perform ultrasound-guided biopsies and learn smear preparation and staining techniques. This is currently one of the most complete and fascinating diagnostic procedures. You will be able to develop your skills and improve your precision.

What are you waiting for? Come along and try it yourself!

Location:

Alumni Room, 1st Floor, HSM

Coordination:

Paula Borralho & Rafael Cruz

Have you ever wanted to explore the intricacies of the temporomandibular joint up close? Do you know the theory behind TMJ arthroscopy but haven’t had the chance to practice it yourself?
This hands-on workshop by IPF is the perfect opportunity to learn the key techniques of TMJ arthroscopy using realistic models. You’ll gain practical experience in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, enhancing your surgical skills and confidence.
Step into the world of TMJ arthroscopy and take your expertise to the next level!

Location:

Instituto Português da Face

Coordination:

David Ângelo

Laparoscopy is nowadays an essential technique for most surgeons. We live in the era of minimally invasive approaches, so learning to master techniques that allow patients to have a faster, more comfortable recovery with a lower risk of complications becomes indispensable in the curriculum of any future doctor.

Come learn the fundamentals of laparoscopy and enhance your surgical skills using our endo trainers, always under the close guidance of experienced professionals!

Location:

Experimental Surgery, 9th Floor

Coordination:

Catarina Sousa

Have you ever wanted to learn how to suture? Have you sutured before but feel you need to refine your technique? If so, this workshop is perfect for you!
In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to learn basic suturing techniques and understand the complexity behind a simple stitch. Are you ready to take your first steps in the surgical field?

Location:

Anatomical Theatre

Coordination:

Ana Cristina Lavado

Step into the operating room with this workshop, an opportunity to shadow a surgeon during their morning procedures. This immersive experience allows you to witness the complexities of surgery firsthand, offering insights into the decision-making, techniques, and patient care that are part of everyday surgical practice. It’s a chance to observe and learn from a leading expert in the field, gaining practical knowledge and skills that medical school often doesn’t provide. Perfect for you if you are eager to see surgery in action and deepen your understanding of the operating theatre!

Location:

Cardiothoracic Surgery Service

Coordination:

Nuno Guerra

Are you already familiar with the different types of antibiotics and the appropriate therapy for many bacterial infections? Yet, do you still feel nervous when you have to choose the right antibiotic for a specific disease?
If you’ve already mastered the basics of antibiotic treatment and want to refine your prescribing skills, this is the right workshop for you!

Location:

Room 1, 3rd floor, HSM

Coordination:

Carla Mimoso

Have you ever wondered how the mind can influence healing and behavior? Do you want to learn techniques to help patients manage pain, anxiety, or stress more effectively?
This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore evidence-based hypnotic techniques in a practical, hands-on setting. You’ll learn how to safely apply hypnosis in clinical scenarios, understand its mechanisms, and enhance your patient care skills.
Step into the fascinating world of the mind and discover how clinical hypnosis can transform your practice!

Location:

Anf. Prof. Carlos Salazar Sousa, 7th Floor, EHSM

Coordination

Mário Simões

Do you know how to manage a critically ill patient? Critically ill patients often require hospital care, which makes transportation essential. In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the steps, do’s and don’ts of transporting critically ill patients, while also practicing some procedures alongside the Ocean Medical team!

Location:

Anf. 1,17, ERS

Coordination

Nuno Gaibino

Do you think dermatology is just about moles and warts? Then we think you should try the Dermatosurgery workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to practice surgical techniques in dermatology. From skin biopsies and nevus excisions to wound suturing, don’t miss this unique hands-on experience in the world of dermatology!

Location:

Lab. 17, EEM

Coordination

Inês Amaral

We often hear that the eye is our first window to the world. Through it, we dissect the various layers of the reality we construct and perceive. If you have always been fascinated by this organ and are curious to learn more about it, we encourage you not to miss the opportunity to study the different layers of the eye and explore it in detail in this workshop.

Location:

Anatomical Theatre

Coordination

Henrique Reis

Have you ever wondered how an ultrasound is performed? In this workshop, you’ll be able to practice ultrasound techniques using a sonograph and a simulator that can mimic various abdominal pathologies with ultrasound manifestations. After practicing virtually, you’ll have the chance to apply your knowledge on a real person. Come learn more about this technique and gastroenterology — don’t miss this opportunity!

Location:

Simulation Centre, ERS

Coordination

Carlos Mendonça

Have you ever dreamed of holding a heart in your own hands? Would you like the opportunity to dissect it and learn its anatomy in the process? If so, embark on this unforgettable journey through the vessels and chambers of this fascinating and vital organ.

Location:

Anatomical Theatre

Coordination

Ana Gradil

Making an accurate diagnosis is one of the most complex and challenging tasks for a young doctor. Despite all the complementary diagnostic tests at your disposal, the physical examination remains essential in approaching any patient.

In this practical workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to learn and practice: cardiac and pulmonary auscultation, abdominal examination, osteotendinous reflexes, and more. If you can’t wait to put your stethoscope to use and want to acquire the essential knowledge and skills for the physical exam to apply in your first patient encounters, this workshop is for you!

Location:

Institute of Semiotics

Coordination

Marta Duarte

In a career surrounded by illness and death, birth can be one of the most rewarding moments for a doctor. But situations can change in seconds, and it is at this magical yet vulnerable moment that being prepared for any eventuality is essential.

In this workshop, you’ll learn about neonatal emergency care and acquire basic skills related to the neonatal resuscitation algorithm. Don’t miss the opportunity to practice on specialized models under the guidance of field experts!

Location:

Anf. Prof. Augusto Celestino da Costa, 3rd floor, HSM

Coordination

Graça Oliveira

Have you been intimidated by renal physiology and procedures since your first year of medical school? It’s time to put that fear aside. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll not only review renal pathology but also practice essential skills with catheters and related procedures. Learn practical techniques in a safe, guided environment and gain the confidence to apply them in real clinical scenarios. Don’t miss the chance to turn your renal knowledge into hands-on expertise!

Location:

Room 2.08, ERS

Coordination

Ana Sofia Domingos

Obstetrics — undoubtedly one of the most rewarding medical specialties. While most pregnancies proceed without complications, emergencies can arise at any moment, and we need to be prepared!

In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to recognize and manage some of the most common life-threatening obstetric emergencies and put your knowledge to the test by solving clinical cases.

Location:

Prof. Morais David Auditorium, 1st Floor, HSM

Coordination

Rita Mendes Silva

Vision is one of our main connections to the world around us. But what would happen if that connection were suddenly lost? How could we address such a situation? Being prepared is essential!

In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to recognize and manage ophthalmic emergencies that threaten something we often take for granted. Through clinical cases and hands-on practice, you’ll absorb the knowledge every doctor should have. When the moment comes, you don’t want to be caught off guard!

Location:

Room 4, Institute of Anatomy, HSM

Coordination

Henrique Reis

Did you know that high-energy trauma is one of the leading causes of death in Portugal? Would you like to explore the role of orthopedics in major accidents? Then this workshop is for you!
Join us to discuss clinical cases in this field and discover the world of high-energy trauma.

Location:

Anf. Prof. Jorge Horta, 5th Floor, HSM

Coordination

José Banza & Hugo Rafael

If you saw a child choking or having a seizure, would you know what to do? What if you were faced with an accident involving children? The faster you act, the higher the chances of saving their lives!

In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to practice crucial techniques on an anatomical baby model, teaching you to be as fast and efficient as possible when handling pediatric emergencies.

Location:

Auditorium 57, EEM

Coordination

Francisco Abecassis & Marisa Vieira

Would you like to be a Pediatric Neurosurgeon for a day? Then this workshop is for you!

In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with fascinating and challenging clinical cases and understand their management. Additionally, you’ll be guided through surgeries as if you were in the operating room. Ready to step in?

Location:

Room 2, 3rd floor, HSM

Coordination

Cláudia Faria & Maria Manuel Santos

Have you heard of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)? Did you know that HIV prevention is no longer limited to using condoms? Are you interested in sexual health and policy issues?

In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about and discuss the myths and facts surrounding PrEP, its global implementation, efficacy, and safety. What currently hinders its widespread use in clinical practice? Join us in this workshop to discover all this and much more!

Location:

Room 49, EEM

Coordination

Bruno Maia

If you’re tired of learning anatomy just from books and want to explore it in a truly hands-on way, this workshop was made for you!

In the past, human anatomy was taught through the observation of real human specimens, forming one of the pillars of medicine. Today, despite all the tools at our disposal, it remains essential in the training and development of any doctor. In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to acquire basic dissection skills and explore human anatomy through the study of cadavers. Join us on this exciting journey!

Location:

Anatomical Theatre

Coordination

Pedro Oliveira

As a student, you may often experience difficulty when trying to determine the right diagnosis. This workshop will teach you how to approach a medical case in the best possible way, taking into account symptoms, signs and comorbidities. These techniques will lead you to the most likely hypothesis of diagnosis and make you think ahead of others. Don’t miss out!

Location:

Lab. 18, EEM

Coordination

Vasco Tiago

Timetable

Check-In9h — 18h
9h — 18h
Workshops9h — 13h
9h — 13h
Opening Ceremony14h — 14h30
14h — 14h30
Lectures14h30 — 15h45
14h30 — 15h45
Coffee Break15h45 — 16h15
15h45 — 16h15
Round Table16h30 — 17h
16h30 — 17h
Clinical Competition17h15 — 18h
17h15 — 18h
Sneak Peak AIMS Meeting 202618h — 18h10
18h — 18h10

AIMS Clinical Competition

Test your skills under pressure in the ultimate clinical challenge for medical students!

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