Excelen: Center for Bone & Joint Research and Education
Education & Research   Skills Lab & Testing   About Us
Education & Learning   Research-Based Education   Group Training Presentations
Skills Laboratory   Technical Support   Event Planning
Education & Learning

We are serious about providing opportunities that expand orthopaedic knowledge and expertise. Excelen offers educational facilities for both practical, hands–on clinical training and didactic sessions in a convenient and comfortable environment. We are experienced in hosting diverse events and opportunities that are customized to fit our clients.

Excelen also participates in academic training and education of scientists and medical professionals through participation in research projects.

Programs

Excelen can help you design teaching programs that precisely match your requirements and goals.

Internships

We work with students from all over the world, creating concentrated learning programs in a clinical setting. Contact Joan E. Bechtold for more information and application deadlines.

Fellowship Program

Excelen’s fellowship program (including the Trauma fellowship and Joint Replacement fellowship of HCMC) enables scientists and researchers of exceptional merit to expand their knowledge and capabilities. Contact Claudia Miller for more information and application deadlines: 612-873-4220 or Claudia.miller@hcmc.org.

Mentor Connection Program

Excelen trains gifted high school students who are interested in a future in orthopaedic research, engineering, or medicine. As part of a Twin Cities Metro-wide high school program, we connect students with experienced mentors and provide hands-on learning opportunities.

Conferences and Seminars

Our facilities provide an ideal location for your organization or group’s upcoming event. If you are planning an event, you can easily coordinate details and related services, including catering and lodging, through Excelen’s onsite event planner/conference manager.

Tours

We would be pleased to provide a tour of the Excelen facilities. Please contact us to schedule a convenient time.

Research-Based Education

Excelen educates future researchers—both scientists and physicians—by conducting orthopaedic research on innovative surgical and rehabilitative techniques. Please refer to our research activities for examples of typical projects associated with this activity.

For a list of the over 100 researchers and medical professionals who have been mentored through Excelen, please contact us.

Group Training Presentations

Excelen provides the facilities, equipment, professional services, and materials to stage effective training sessions in a clean, clinical environment.

  • 102 seat theatre style auditorium
  • 916 square foot multipurpose room with flat panel monitor for smaller group meetings, catering, receptions and break-out sessions. Green room for speaker preparation.
  • Full audio/visual equipment for video (VHS, sVHS, Beta, DVCam ­ NTSC/PAL), digital data projection, and satellite conferencing
  • Video conference-ready with steerable dish, webinar capabilities, and wireless connectivity
  • Podium and wireless microphones
  • 26” monitor for observing auditorium or the Skills Lab
Skills Laboratory

Immediately adjacent to the auditorium, the Excelen Bio-Skills laboratory is a 2,024 square feet space, spotless and well ventilated. It contains:

  • Five modular workstations with operating room lighting
  • Two C-arm radiology set-ups
  • Full complement of surgical tools /equipment
  • Arthroscopy towers
  • Six 26” color monitors around perimeter with feed from local camera or recorded footage
  • Video camera set-up for recording documentation or live transmission
  • Lead aprons
  • Walk-in freezer/cooler for specimen storage
  • Complete set-up for cadaver and “sawbones” exercises
Technical Support

When you plan an event at Excelen, you have access to:

  • Multiple full cadaver or tissue specimens,
  • Full/partial dissection services to meet your training/procedural needs
  • Specimen/station set-up to your specifications
  • Multiple day specimen storage and prep
  • All specimen acquisition and disposal performed by Excelen*, but we can coordinate with your group if you prefer to manage this directly.
  • Surgical technicians to assist with skills lab sessions, preparation, or procedural support
  • Graphic/medical illustration services for presentation support and training material development and design
  • Certified radiology technician
  • Access to specialty surgical tools through cooperative arrangement with Hennepin County Medical Center. Last minute equipment or implement needs can be quickly resolved.

Our on-site conference manager/event planner supports the smooth planning of your event, arranging for on-site AV technicians who provide resources and assistance, as needed, during your session. Video/audio recording, editing, and production services are available.

* Excelen acquires cadaver specimens from accredited sites using approved protocols for acquisition, preparation, storage, and disposal. Our primary site is the University of Minnesota Anatomy Bequest Program.Serology testing is performed and cleared prior to acceptance of cadaver specimens into the facility. We adhere to the highest professional standards, maintain state of the art specimen storage, and professional dissection services to individually prepare for each customer’s requirements.

Cadaver handling, preparation, and cremation are accomplished with the utmost sensitivity and dignity.

Event Planning

Our staff works with you to design an event that fits your group and budget.

Catering/Dining

Your event planner will provide high quality catering menus and options, whether meals or snacks/beverages. Excellent restaurants are also within easy walking distance for your program participants.

Lodging

Located near the Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis, Excelen is just blocks from major hotels and downtown Minneapolis activities, and cultural attractions.

Parking

Ramp parking is available at the 1010 Metrodome ramp just across the street from our facility. Excelen is also just a short walk from the Metrodome Light Rail Station, which provides easy access to downtown, the airport, and Mall of America.