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Distress Call

Chapter 16

“I am amazed” exclaimed Ensign Singebreath. “I’ve never studied medicine, and certainly not Hudlar medicine, but I was able to talk Hudlar medicine with Dr. Conway with ease. Now that the tape has been erased, I can only remember fragments of the things I talked about with him. The one thing I could do without was the desire to have my food sprayed on to my body. It feels good to eat this meal in peace.”
Nurse Jauld said “It was my feeling of frustration that none of my fur was expressing my emotions. Well, that and the feeling that I had to drop flat and crawl to move around. Those were the major drawbacks for me. The lesser problem was the donor’s odd sexual fantasies, but I just kept telling myself that it was just a recording of him and that he’s probably long gone by now.”
Naydrad said “I hear that comment regularly from beings who get that tape. I’ve got news for you. Those are not odd fantasies, that’s how we Kelgians do it.”
“I’m sorry. I did not mean to give insult.”
“No offense taken. At least you got a sensible tape. I got an MSVK tape and I must have looked like a fool trying to stand on just three legs.”
Murchison said “You looked no sillier than I must have looked trying to walk like a Melfan ELNT. And, it’s a good thing Dr. Medalont is a male or I might have really made a fool of myself. Now I fully understand what Peter went through while he was preparing for that ELNT pancreatic surgery several years ago. Did you plan for me to get that tape.” She gave her husband an accusing look.
“I swear.” replied Conway “I had nothing to do with those decisions. Blame your gossip loving boss.”
“I admit it.” said Dr. Thornnastor.
“Why?”
“Dr. Conway still holds that tape. I thought this would give you a chance to understand what he has to deal with every time he has to work around a female ELNT.” After a pause, it added “And if anyone ever asks about my admission, well, I was actually admitting that I love gossip.”
Valentine said “I think I’ve figured out part of your criteria, Dr. Thornnastor. You selected the tapes from those held by Dr. Conway, Dr. Medalont, or yourself. That way, someone would be able to evaluate our understanding of the knowledge and the memories.”
“You are correct. Now it is time for Dr. Braithwaite to begin its part of these tests.”
“Don’t worry,” said Braithwaite in his green Monitor Corps uniform “I will not take you away from your meal. You will start after your meal.” He gestured to the lab’s newly installed LCARS terminal “I understand that device can access a large number of the Earth Human entertainment media called movies. I contacted Captain Picard of Starfleet to get some suggestions. He put me in touch with someone called Fishlegs No-Name who provided this list of movies that met my criteria. I want all five of you to get together and choose one from this list and watch it as a group. After that distraction, I want each of you to gather your thoughts then write your report on the day’s activities. Ensign Singebreath, since dragons do not have a written language, you are to dictate your report. And yes, I will address you by your rank. The others here call you a patient for administrative purposes, but as a military man, I believe a person’s rank should be noted and respected.”
“Yes sir, Major Braithwaite.”
Braithwaite continued “That will be the routine for the next few evenings. I will join you for dinner here in the lab each of those evenings and will take part in discussions, but I will not answer questions on how well individuals are doing. Is that understood.”
All five test subjects replied “Yes sir.”
***
Dr. O’Mara’s few days in the Barbaric Archipelago were restful. He spent most of the time on Tomorrow, but he did go out for a day of hard work fishing on the boat captained by Peter Wiggin. Although he felt his body’s complaints at the end of that day, the hard work during that day had reminded him of his younger days working in construction. Now he was about to return to Enterprise for the trip out to Vespasian at Mars. From there, the two ships would travel to a handful of Federation worlds before returning to Earth. The other ships in Marshal Dermod’s fleet had already begun making introductory visits to various Federation worlds.
He waited near the Runabout while Peg-Leg and Boo filed their flight plan. Fishlegs approached. “May I speak with you for a moment, sir?”
“Of course, Fishlegs.”
“I’d like to know if you would help me look for the source of the Valanglen and Deldain.”
“The source?”
“Yes sir. Everyone who has come to this realm has come from a story realm - from a book, or from a movie. I have been searching for the story the Valanglen and Deldain are from and so far I’ve not been able to find any reference to them anywhere. I was wondering if they could be from a story in your realm.”
“That is a good question, fishlegs. And if our stories are going to become real too, we should be prepared for it. I will make some calls and get some people looking into it. I’m sure you will continue searching the records here.”
“Yes sir.”
“Good. We will get together and compare our results when Vespasian and Enterprise get back to Earth.”
“Thank you, sir. One more thing. Sir.”
“Yes.”
“You will soon be returning to Vespasian. You started to relax while you were on Enterprise, and you let yourself relax here on Tomorrow. I just thought to remind you to start getting back into character. From what I understand, most of Sector General would not know what to do with a calm and pleasant Dr. O’Mara.”
“Right, now. You’ve stood there and told me the obvious. Now what are you expecting, a pat on the back? I don’t do that. I shrink heads. Got that?” Despite having switched to his usual Sector General tone of voice, Dr. O’Mara had a hint of a smile on his face.
Fishlegs gave him a crisp salute then said “Yes sir.”
“Now, carry on, young man.”
They both watched as a smaller Starfleet shuttle approached then landed on the second pad. Bean, dressed in an Academy Cadet uniform, climbed out of the shuttle after shutting it down. “Good.” he said “I didn’t miss you.” He held out his hand as he approached.
Dr. O’Mara shook it as he said “Good to see you again, Commander Bean.”
“It’s Cadet Bean when I’m in this uniform, sir. My Commander rank is only active when the Dragon Army is called to session.”
“Sorry, I guess that had been said somewhere but I missed it. Anyway, in my opinion, you carried out your duties as well as a major in the Corps, so I’m sure you will do well in Starfleet. Of course, if you want to serve in the real space service, I’m sure they’ll welcome you in the Corps.”
“Thank you sir, I’ll keep that in mind.”
Fishlegs said “Did you want to ask, or tell either of us something?”
“No. I’m planning to hitch a ride to the Academy by way of Enterprise. That shuttle stays here.” Bean gestured to the shuttle he had just parked “I only used it to do a mail run to the Hysterics and the Peaceables. I should mention that Petra and Fly will be joining us on Enterprise. Why don’t you come along and get a bit of time with Petra.”
Fishlegs tapped his communicator then asked “Useless. Will you need me anytime during the afternoon? I think I’m going to the Academy Library to do some research. I’ll beam back in time for the Thing this evening.”
“That’s fine, Fishlegs. Say hi to Petra and the others for me.”
***
Valentine and Nurse Jauld had been added to Dr. Conway’s class of trainees for the day. The morning was to start in a lecture hall with a discussion of a few of Dr. Conway’s patients. After that discussion, they would make the rounds of those patients. Conway explained to the other trainees that Cadet Valentine and Nurse Jauld were there as part of a test of the compatibility of Sector General and Starfleet medical personnel, but they had not been told about the mind tapes. She and Jauld each carried two tapes for the day. Valentine listened as a Melfan doctor trainee took its turn discussing the case of a Kelgian DBLF patient who was facing life altering complications from an impact injury. She had been just casually comparing what she heard to what the DBLF mind in her head had to say about it. With each suggestion made by a trainee, that mind informed her that what the trainee was suggesting would lead to the same devastating emotional and social trauma as the rest of the approaches suggested promised. She spoke without realizing it as she thought “What they need to do is go after the mass without cutting through the fur.”
“And how do you suggest they do that?” said the translation from the Melfan in a flat tone, but the Melfan ELNT tape in Valentine’s head let her know that it was irritated for having been interrupted.
“I understand your irritation, Trainee Holsdond,” said Dr. Conway “but remember my words that today’s inclusion of Starfleet personnel is part of a series of tests ordered by Dr. O’Mara and sanctioned by Sector Marshal Dermod.”
“Yes, Senior Physician Conway.”
The ELNT knowledge in Valentine’s head let her know that Trainee Holsdond’s use of Conway’s full title when it was not necessary was meant as a protest. She thought of how Cadet Fredricks used sarcasm during that surgery simulation when– That simulation!
“Cadet Valentine.” said Dr. Conway “I see a lot of activity in your face. I should remind you that no one in this group is a telepath, so if you have something to share, please vocalize it.”
“Sorry sir. I was just organizing my thoughts before trying to express my idea.” She pressed the thumb and two leading fingers of her right hand to her chin - pre-arranged signal - as she continued “Let Trainee Holsdond continue while I prepare myself.”
The Kelgian trainee next to her, who had been at Sector General longer than the other trainees, said in a low but still translated tone “I suggest you go back to your quarters and pack your things if that’s how you intend to act here.”
Dr. Conway said “Trainee Holsdond, please continue your thoughts.”
“As I was saying, the detached mass, if allowed to remain, will soon go septic with life threatening consequences. The loss of mobility that will be contained to just a small patch of fur would certainly be less of a trauma than what the patient would suffer in a septic state.”
The Kelgian trainee said “They say there is a brain somewhere in that shell of yours, but I guess even you can forget where it is. The loss of mobility in a Kelgian’s fur - even in just a small patch - is a life altering event severe enough that some Kelgians would choose to go out with the septic poisoning.”
“Valentine.” said Dr. Conway with a suggestion of desperation in his voice “Are you ready?”
“Yes sir. What if you sent an articulated scope in through the patient’s belly, where the lateral muscle bands are not as critical for fur mobility? The Iantic band might be the best place then– ”
Holsdond interrupted “I doubt that even Dr. Prilicla would be able to run a scope tool to reach that mass from there without damaging at least the stomach and the spleen.”
Dr. Conway said “I agree with Trainee Holsdond’s assessment.”
“Sir. But what if you emptied the stomach then pulled a light vacuum in it? That should leave a space between the stomach and the muscle bands to snake the scope through. Once you are past the stomach from that side, the spleen should not be a concern.”
“But,” replied Conway “that would mean the scope goes through at least three acute angles. We do our best to avoid even one acute angle with our scopes. Does Starfleet have scopes that can do that kind of work?”
“Yes. I’ve done it in two training simulation surgeries.”
The Kelgian said “Training dummies are rarely as accurate as the real thing. I know I’m only a trainee here, but I advise not considering that approach.”
Valentine responded “The simulations were on a holodeck with fully accurate representations of the patients.”
“Holograms.” said the Kelgian “You were playing with projected light. I’d have less faith in that than I’d have in a dummy.”
Dr. Conway said “I wouldn’t. I’ve experienced the holodecks on Enterprise and on the Ender Wiggin. Dr. Crusher assisted while I did a simulated appendectomy as a demonstration of one of their major teaching tools. It was like performing an actual surgery.”
Trainee Holsdond asked “Cadet Valentine, was that scope a part of the simulation?”
“No.” replied Valentine “We use real tools in the advanced years of training at the academy.”
“How soon could Starfleet get one of those scopes out here to us?” inquired Conway.
“We already have one. I brought mine with the rest of my tools. I hadn’t had any reason to use it out here, yet.”
Dr. Conway Thought about this for a moment then said to his students “This information is worthy of a change of plans. You will all get a glance at the research side of things here. Valentine, You and I will go get your tools. I want the rest of you to proceed to the Pathology Lab and wait for us to get there. I will have informed Dr. Thornnastor before you get there.”
***
As Dr. Conway walked with Valentine to her quarters, he said “So, tell me more about this scope. Who figured out how to make a scope with such a fine degree of articulation?”
“It is based on technology and materials developed by the Klingons. They initially used it to make tools to pull wiring, fiber, and the like through lateral channels in bulkheads during ship construction and repairs. Then they developed models to use in repairs of equipment that cannot be opened for servicing. They found that such repairs often required multiple turns tighter then right angles. It didn’t take them long to realize the potential for medical use. They have licensed production of the tools for both uses, but they are the leaders in production and sales. Starfleet has chosen to purchase them directly from the klingons, as those are considered to be the best. My scope can be used clean for getting an internal view, or I can attach streamlined service packs that fit around the lens and light assembly. One pack has small, but capable, fingers - as they call them - that I’ve used at the clinic to retrieve things like coins and rings swallowed by children. Another has a small precise cutting beam and a suction line as well as the fingers. Another is set up for doing bi-pass work as well as doing other repairs to arteries, veins, and ducts. I have, so far, used that third one only in simulations.”
“What can’t it do?”
“It is still too big and its movement is not refined enough to be used for delicate brain surgery, and one must not travel it through or along inside the spinal channel.” Their discussion continued on this subject and on her other tools until they reached the Pathology Lab.
***
After the discussions and Valentine’s demonstration of the scope with a prepared gelatin mass containing obstacles which was commonly used for practice with the scopes at Sector General, the group went to lunch before they would accompany Dr. Conway on his rounds. As they made their way to the cafeteria, the Kelgian quietly asked Valentine “Are there Kelgians in Starfleet?”
“No. Not yet, but any who would want to join would be welcome.”
“Then how is it that you know so much about our physiology? You’ve got a mind tape. Don’t you. Is that what they are testing?”
Valentine looked around then said “Trainee Mundric, Could you hold up here with me for a moment? I’d like to get some clarification on something Charge Nurse Naydrad has told me.” After they were far enough from the group, she said “The answers to your questions are classified, so I cannot go into details. I can safely say this, though I hope you will keep this to yourself for now. In light of the information shared in the growing contact between Starfleet and the Monitor Corps, there are reevaluations of what had been time honored practices taking place in both services.”
“Before I was accepted for training here, I was a doctor in the Kelgian Ground Defense Force. I still hold clearances, so I can, and will, keep your information quiet. However. Even if you have a tape, it was still your mind that made the connection to that tool and came up with this promising procedure. If this works, I will do my part to be sure that all in the medical community on Kelgia will know of your work.”
“Good. Now, lets go get some lunch.”
***
Because of the work and study required to plan the procedure, then to prepare herself to carry it out, Valentine was permitted to retain the two tapes, though, she was required to spend some additional time being evaluated by Dr. Braithwaite each day. When she and Dr. Conway were sure of the procedure, they contacted Dr. Crusher on Enterprise, and officials at Starfleet Medical in San Francisco to arrange for simulated surgeries in holodeck training labs there.
Nurse Jauld was considered to assist in the surgery, but she declined, saying that there was one who was more appropriate. Therefore, Jauld continued with Dr. Conway’s class of trainees where she felt she was learning what she needed to take back to Endeavor, and to Starfleet Medical. Valentine went through a crash course in Sector General’s surgical procedures, tools, and practices. She also took part in the planning to integrate the required Starfleet technology into an operating room for the procedure. During all this, she took some time, whenever she could, to watch operations from the observation gallery that was available in most of Sector General’s operating rooms. “I was told I’d find you here.” said Mundric as it approached “You need a break, and I’ve got a good reason for a break.”
“What’s that?”
“I was promoted from Trainee to Physician today. Dr. Conway has given us permission to have a simple celebration this evening in our usual lecture hall.”
“That’s great news. Of course, that’s a reason to take a break.”
***
“No.” said Colonel Skempton “You don’t have to repeat yourself, I heard you clearly. I’m hesitating in replying because I’m not sure if you are joking, or you are seriously asking me to permit a student - from a school not accredited by the Federation Medical Council - to preform an intrusive, radical, and as yet untried operation on a Kelgian DBLF patient who requires only a procedure that has been well proven.”
“But this new procedure has the potential to prevent maybe thousands of Kelgians from facing the emotional trauma and social stigma of having emotionless patches of fur. And, it is not completely untried. Thorny and I sent the particulars of this case to Starfleet Medical at Starfleet Academy. Naydrad gave them permission to use Dr. Crusher’s scans of her to create a patient for simulated operations in one of their holodeck class labs and the procedure has been performed successfully in simulation twice now. The Dean of Surgery at the Academy conducted one of those simulations and she intends to monitor the operation over the sub-space network. Maintenance has already run the cables to DBLF O.R. 2 so moving the LCARS terminal to that O.R. would take less than half an hour.”
“Surely, Valentine could teach you how to use that tool.”
“She has taught me, Prilicla, and Thorny how to use it. Learning the controls is simple, mastering those controls takes lots of practice. Starfleet Medical has told us that the usual interval between learning the controls and being qualified to attempt a holodeck simulation with it is four months. Valentine told me it took her six months before she qualified to try a simulation.”
Colonel Skempton considered this information then asked “Has she only used it in simulation, or has she used it in procedures on actual patients?”
“She has used it under supervision at the Starfleet Medical Clinic in San Francisco. Though, even she will admit that she has not used it for anything as complex as this.”
After another moment of thought, Colonel Skempton asked “Who would be in there with her?”
“Thornnastor, Medalont, and I will be around her monitoring the operation. Prilicla will be monitoring her state of mind as well as that of the patient. Braithwaite will be across the table to focus his attention on her. Naydrad will assist. Because of the increased number of people and equipment, I intend to let the rest of the O.R. team be composed of Kelgian DBLF and Nidian DBDG staff.”
“A reasonable plan, but I want this to be your operation. You are to open the patient and supervise the preparation of the stomach. She is to take over when all is ready for the scope to be inserted. Then, you are to take over again after she has withdrawn the tool. I believe the Federation Medical Council would not have complaint with Valentine being involved as a specialist.”
“I will post the notice to scheduling with myself listed as the lead surgeon.”

Description
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Distress Call

Chapter 16

“I am amazed” exclaimed Ensign Singebreath. “I’ve never studied medicine, and certainly not Hudlar medicine, but I was able to talk Hudlar medicine with Dr. Conway with ease. Now that the tape has been erased, I can only remember fragments of the things I talked about with him. The one thing I could do without was the desire to have my food sprayed on to my body. It feels good to eat this meal in peace.”
Nurse Jauld said “It was my feeling of frustration that none of my fur was expressing my emotions. Well, that and the feeling that I had to drop flat and crawl to move around. Those were the major drawbacks for me. The lesser problem was the donor’s odd sexual fantasies, but I just kept telling myself that it was just a recording of him and that he’s probably long gone by now.”
Naydrad said “I hear that comment regularly from beings who get that tape. I’ve got news for you. Those are not odd fantasies, that’s how we Kelgians do it.”
“I’m sorry. I did not mean to give insult.”
“No offense taken. At least you got a sensible tape. I got an MSVK tape and I must have looked like a fool trying to stand on just three legs.”
Murchison said “You looked no sillier than I must have looked trying to walk like a Melfan ELNT. And, it’s a good thing Dr. Medalont is a male or I might have really made a fool of myself. Now I fully understand what Peter went through while he was preparing for that ELNT pancreatic surgery several years ago. Did you plan for me to get that tape.” She gave her husband an accusing look.
“I swear.” replied Conway “I had nothing to do with those decisions. Blame your gossip loving boss.”
“I admit it.” said Dr. Thornnastor.
“Why?”
“Dr. Conway still holds that tape. I thought this would give you a chance to understand what he has to deal with every time he has to work around a female ELNT.” After a pause, it added “And if anyone ever asks about my admission, well, I was actually admitting that I love gossip.”
Valentine said “I think I’ve figured out part of your criteria, Dr. Thornnastor. You selected the tapes from those held by Dr. Conway, Dr. Medalont, or yourself. That way, someone would be able to evaluate our understanding of the knowledge and the memories.”
“You are correct. Now it is time for Dr. Braithwaite to begin its part of these tests.”
“Don’t worry,” said Braithwaite in his green Monitor Corps uniform “I will not take you away from your meal. You will start after your meal.” He gestured to the lab’s newly installed LCARS terminal “I understand that device can access a large number of the Earth Human entertainment media called movies. I contacted Captain Picard of Starfleet to get some suggestions. He put me in touch with someone called Fishlegs No-Name who provided this list of movies that met my criteria. I want all five of you to get together and choose one from this list and watch it as a group. After that distraction, I want each of you to gather your thoughts then write your report on the day’s activities. Ensign Singebreath, since dragons do not have a written language, you are to dictate your report. And yes, I will address you by your rank. The others here call you a patient for administrative purposes, but as a military man, I believe a person’s rank should be noted and respected.”
“Yes sir, Major Braithwaite.”
Braithwaite continued “That will be the routine for the next few evenings. I will join you for dinner here in the lab each of those evenings and will take part in discussions, but I will not answer questions on how well individuals are doing. Is that understood.”
All five test subjects replied “Yes sir.”
***
Dr. O’Mara’s few days in the Barbaric Archipelago were restful. He spent most of the time on Tomorrow, but he did go out for a day of hard work fishing on the boat captained by Peter Wiggin. Although he felt his body’s complaints at the end of that day, the hard work during that day had reminded him of his younger days working in construction. Now he was about to return to Enterprise for the trip out to Vespasian at Mars. From there, the two ships would travel to a handful of Federation worlds before returning to Earth. The other ships in Marshal Dermod’s fleet had already begun making introductory visits to various Federation worlds.
He waited near the Runabout while Peg-Leg and Boo filed their flight plan. Fishlegs approached. “May I speak with you for a moment, sir?”
“Of course, Fishlegs.”
“I’d like to know if you would help me look for the source of the Valanglen and Deldain.”
“The source?”
“Yes sir. Everyone who has come to this realm has come from a story realm - from a book, or from a movie. I have been searching for the story the Valanglen and Deldain are from and so far I’ve not been able to find any reference to them anywhere. I was wondering if they could be from a story in your realm.”
“That is a good question, fishlegs. And if our stories are going to become real too, we should be prepared for it. I will make some calls and get some people looking into it. I’m sure you will continue searching the records here.”
“Yes sir.”
“Good. We will get together and compare our results when Vespasian and Enterprise get back to Earth.”
“Thank you, sir. One more thing. Sir.”
“Yes.”
“You will soon be returning to Vespasian. You started to relax while you were on Enterprise, and you let yourself relax here on Tomorrow. I just thought to remind you to start getting back into character. From what I understand, most of Sector General would not know what to do with a calm and pleasant Dr. O’Mara.”
“Right, now. You’ve stood there and told me the obvious. Now what are you expecting, a pat on the back? I don’t do that. I shrink heads. Got that?” Despite having switched to his usual Sector General tone of voice, Dr. O’Mara had a hint of a smile on his face.
Fishlegs gave him a crisp salute then said “Yes sir.”
“Now, carry on, young man.”
They both watched as a smaller Starfleet shuttle approached then landed on the second pad. Bean, dressed in an Academy Cadet uniform, climbed out of the shuttle after shutting it down. “Good.” he said “I didn’t miss you.” He held out his hand as he approached.
Dr. O’Mara shook it as he said “Good to see you again, Commander Bean.”
“It’s Cadet Bean when I’m in this uniform, sir. My Commander rank is only active when the Dragon Army is called to session.”
“Sorry, I guess that had been said somewhere but I missed it. Anyway, in my opinion, you carried out your duties as well as a major in the Corps, so I’m sure you will do well in Starfleet. Of course, if you want to serve in the real space service, I’m sure they’ll welcome you in the Corps.”
“Thank you sir, I’ll keep that in mind.”
Fishlegs said “Did you want to ask, or tell either of us something?”
“No. I’m planning to hitch a ride to the Academy by way of Enterprise. That shuttle stays here.” Bean gestured to the shuttle he had just parked “I only used it to do a mail run to the Hysterics and the Peaceables. I should mention that Petra and Fly will be joining us on Enterprise. Why don’t you come along and get a bit of time with Petra.”
Fishlegs tapped his communicator then asked “Useless. Will you need me anytime during the afternoon? I think I’m going to the Academy Library to do some research. I’ll beam back in time for the Thing this evening.”
“That’s fine, Fishlegs. Say hi to Petra and the others for me.”
***
Valentine and Nurse Jauld had been added to Dr. Conway’s class of trainees for the day. The morning was to start in a lecture hall with a discussion of a few of Dr. Conway’s patients. After that discussion, they would make the rounds of those patients. Conway explained to the other trainees that Cadet Valentine and Nurse Jauld were there as part of a test of the compatibility of Sector General and Starfleet medical personnel, but they had not been told about the mind tapes. She and Jauld each carried two tapes for the day. Valentine listened as a Melfan doctor trainee took its turn discussing the case of a Kelgian DBLF patient who was facing life altering complications from an impact injury. She had been just casually comparing what she heard to what the DBLF mind in her head had to say about it. With each suggestion made by a trainee, that mind informed her that what the trainee was suggesting would lead to the same devastating emotional and social trauma as the rest of the approaches suggested promised. She spoke without realizing it as she thought “What they need to do is go after the mass without cutting through the fur.”
“And how do you suggest they do that?” said the translation from the Melfan in a flat tone, but the Melfan ELNT tape in Valentine’s head let her know that it was irritated for having been interrupted.
“I understand your irritation, Trainee Holsdond,” said Dr. Conway “but remember my words that today’s inclusion of Starfleet personnel is part of a series of tests ordered by Dr. O’Mara and sanctioned by Sector Marshal Dermod.”
“Yes, Senior Physician Conway.”
The ELNT knowledge in Valentine’s head let her know that Trainee Holsdond’s use of Conway’s full title when it was not necessary was meant as a protest. She thought of how Cadet Fredricks used sarcasm during that surgery simulation when– That simulation!
“Cadet Valentine.” said Dr. Conway “I see a lot of activity in your face. I should remind you that no one in this group is a telepath, so if you have something to share, please vocalize it.”
“Sorry sir. I was just organizing my thoughts before trying to express my idea.” She pressed the thumb and two leading fingers of her right hand to her chin - pre-arranged signal - as she continued “Let Trainee Holsdond continue while I prepare myself.”
The Kelgian trainee next to her, who had been at Sector General longer than the other trainees, said in a low but still translated tone “I suggest you go back to your quarters and pack your things if that’s how you intend to act here.”
Dr. Conway said “Trainee Holsdond, please continue your thoughts.”
“As I was saying, the detached mass, if allowed to remain, will soon go septic with life threatening consequences. The loss of mobility that will be contained to just a small patch of fur would certainly be less of a trauma than what the patient would suffer in a septic state.”
The Kelgian trainee said “They say there is a brain somewhere in that shell of yours, but I guess even you can forget where it is. The loss of mobility in a Kelgian’s fur - even in just a small patch - is a life altering event severe enough that some Kelgians would choose to go out with the septic poisoning.”
“Valentine.” said Dr. Conway with a suggestion of desperation in his voice “Are you ready?”
“Yes sir. What if you sent an articulated scope in through the patient’s belly, where the lateral muscle bands are not as critical for fur mobility? The Iantic band might be the best place then– ”
Holsdond interrupted “I doubt that even Dr. Prilicla would be able to run a scope tool to reach that mass from there without damaging at least the stomach and the spleen.”
Dr. Conway said “I agree with Trainee Holsdond’s assessment.”
“Sir. But what if you emptied the stomach then pulled a light vacuum in it? That should leave a space between the stomach and the muscle bands to snake the scope through. Once you are past the stomach from that side, the spleen should not be a concern.”
“But,” replied Conway “that would mean the scope goes through at least three acute angles. We do our best to avoid even one acute angle with our scopes. Does Starfleet have scopes that can do that kind of work?”
“Yes. I’ve done it in two training simulation surgeries.”
The Kelgian said “Training dummies are rarely as accurate as the real thing. I know I’m only a trainee here, but I advise not considering that approach.”
Valentine responded “The simulations were on a holodeck with fully accurate representations of the patients.”
“Holograms.” said the Kelgian “You were playing with projected light. I’d have less faith in that than I’d have in a dummy.”
Dr. Conway said “I wouldn’t. I’ve experienced the holodecks on Enterprise and on the Ender Wiggin. Dr. Crusher assisted while I did a simulated appendectomy as a demonstration of one of their major teaching tools. It was like performing an actual surgery.”
Trainee Holsdond asked “Cadet Valentine, was that scope a part of the simulation?”
“No.” replied Valentine “We use real tools in the advanced years of training at the academy.”
“How soon could Starfleet get one of those scopes out here to us?” inquired Conway.
“We already have one. I brought mine with the rest of my tools. I hadn’t had any reason to use it out here, yet.”
Dr. Conway Thought about this for a moment then said to his students “This information is worthy of a change of plans. You will all get a glance at the research side of things here. Valentine, You and I will go get your tools. I want the rest of you to proceed to the Pathology Lab and wait for us to get there. I will have informed Dr. Thornnastor before you get there.”
***
As Dr. Conway walked with Valentine to her quarters, he said “So, tell me more about this scope. Who figured out how to make a scope with such a fine degree of articulation?”
“It is based on technology and materials developed by the Klingons. They initially used it to make tools to pull wiring, fiber, and the like through lateral channels in bulkheads during ship construction and repairs. Then they developed models to use in repairs of equipment that cannot be opened for servicing. They found that such repairs often required multiple turns tighter then right angles. It didn’t take them long to realize the potential for medical use. They have licensed production of the tools for both uses, but they are the leaders in production and sales. Starfleet has chosen to purchase them directly from the klingons, as those are considered to be the best. My scope can be used clean for getting an internal view, or I can attach streamlined service packs that fit around the lens and light assembly. One pack has small, but capable, fingers - as they call them - that I’ve used at the clinic to retrieve things like coins and rings swallowed by children. Another has a small precise cutting beam and a suction line as well as the fingers. Another is set up for doing bi-pass work as well as doing other repairs to arteries, veins, and ducts. I have, so far, used that third one only in simulations.”
“What can’t it do?”
“It is still too big and its movement is not refined enough to be used for delicate brain surgery, and one must not travel it through or along inside the spinal channel.” Their discussion continued on this subject and on her other tools until they reached the Pathology Lab.
***
After the discussions and Valentine’s demonstration of the scope with a prepared gelatin mass containing obstacles which was commonly used for practice with the scopes at Sector General, the group went to lunch before they would accompany Dr. Conway on his rounds. As they made their way to the cafeteria, the Kelgian quietly asked Valentine “Are there Kelgians in Starfleet?”
“No. Not yet, but any who would want to join would be welcome.”
“Then how is it that you know so much about our physiology? You’ve got a mind tape. Don’t you. Is that what they are testing?”
Valentine looked around then said “Trainee Mundric, Could you hold up here with me for a moment? I’d like to get some clarification on something Charge Nurse Naydrad has told me.” After they were far enough from the group, she said “The answers to your questions are classified, so I cannot go into details. I can safely say this, though I hope you will keep this to yourself for now. In light of the information shared in the growing contact between Starfleet and the Monitor Corps, there are reevaluations of what had been time honored practices taking place in both services.”
“Before I was accepted for training here, I was a doctor in the Kelgian Ground Defense Force. I still hold clearances, so I can, and will, keep your information quiet. However. Even if you have a tape, it was still your mind that made the connection to that tool and came up with this promising procedure. If this works, I will do my part to be sure that all in the medical community on Kelgia will know of your work.”
“Good. Now, lets go get some lunch.”
***
Because of the work and study required to plan the procedure, then to prepare herself to carry it out, Valentine was permitted to retain the two tapes, though, she was required to spend some additional time being evaluated by Dr. Braithwaite each day. When she and Dr. Conway were sure of the procedure, they contacted Dr. Crusher on Enterprise, and officials at Starfleet Medical in San Francisco to arrange for simulated surgeries in holodeck training labs there.
Nurse Jauld was considered to assist in the surgery, but she declined, saying that there was one who was more appropriate. Therefore, Jauld continued with Dr. Conway’s class of trainees where she felt she was learning what she needed to take back to Endeavor, and to Starfleet Medical. Valentine went through a crash course in Sector General’s surgical procedures, tools, and practices. She also took part in the planning to integrate the required Starfleet technology into an operating room for the procedure. During all this, she took some time, whenever she could, to watch operations from the observation gallery that was available in most of Sector General’s operating rooms. “I was told I’d find you here.” said Mundric as it approached “You need a break, and I’ve got a good reason for a break.”
“What’s that?”
“I was promoted from Trainee to Physician today. Dr. Conway has given us permission to have a simple celebration this evening in our usual lecture hall.”
“That’s great news. Of course, that’s a reason to take a break.”
***
“No.” said Colonel Skempton “You don’t have to repeat yourself, I heard you clearly. I’m hesitating in replying because I’m not sure if you are joking, or you are seriously asking me to permit a student - from a school not accredited by the Federation Medical Council - to preform an intrusive, radical, and as yet untried operation on a Kelgian DBLF patient who requires only a procedure that has been well proven.”
“But this new procedure has the potential to prevent maybe thousands of Kelgians from facing the emotional trauma and social stigma of having emotionless patches of fur. And, it is not completely untried. Thorny and I sent the particulars of this case to Starfleet Medical at Starfleet Academy. Naydrad gave them permission to use Dr. Crusher’s scans of her to create a patient for simulated operations in one of their holodeck class labs and the procedure has been performed successfully in simulation twice now. The Dean of Surgery at the Academy conducted one of those simulations and she intends to monitor the operation over the sub-space network. Maintenance has already run the cables to DBLF O.R. 2 so moving the LCARS terminal to that O.R. would take less than half an hour.”
“Surely, Valentine could teach you how to use that tool.”
“She has taught me, Prilicla, and Thorny how to use it. Learning the controls is simple, mastering those controls takes lots of practice. Starfleet Medical has told us that the usual interval between learning the controls and being qualified to attempt a holodeck simulation with it is four months. Valentine told me it took her six months before she qualified to try a simulation.”
Colonel Skempton considered this information then asked “Has she only used it in simulation, or has she used it in procedures on actual patients?”
“She has used it under supervision at the Starfleet Medical Clinic in San Francisco. Though, even she will admit that she has not used it for anything as complex as this.”
After another moment of thought, Colonel Skempton asked “Who would be in there with her?”
“Thornnastor, Medalont, and I will be around her monitoring the operation. Prilicla will be monitoring her state of mind as well as that of the patient. Braithwaite will be across the table to focus his attention on her. Naydrad will assist. Because of the increased number of people and equipment, I intend to let the rest of the O.R. team be composed of Kelgian DBLF and Nidian DBDG staff.”
“A reasonable plan, but I want this to be your operation. You are to open the patient and supervise the preparation of the stomach. She is to take over when all is ready for the scope to be inserted. Then, you are to take over again after she has withdrawn the tool. I believe the Federation Medical Council would not have complaint with Valentine being involved as a specialist.”
“I will post the notice to scheduling with myself listed as the lead surgeon.”