Pedro Rivera-Hernandez, MD

I was first drawn to Buffalo because of its substantial history in both clinical and basic science research and international recognition in neonatal care innovation.

Historically, large clinical investigations and critical developments have included studies of surfactant treatment, nitric oxide therapy, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The innovation continues today with a state-of-the-art research facility doing groundbreaking work in disorders of neonatal transition at birth and neonatal resuscitation in unique lamb models.

Buffalo has given me access to a diverse group of mentors and leaders in research. This program has given me the opportunity to work in developing new technologies and educational tools for teaching neonatal resuscitation.

My current project consists in evaluating pharmacokinetics and success in return of spontaneous circulation when administering epinephrine via IO administration versus umbilical venous catheter in a perinatal asphyxiated cardiac arrest lamb model.

I have grown and learned more than I thought possible in my first year as a fellow because of the level of responsibility entrusted to me. In a typical shift I manage a broad spectrum of clinical problems, including hypoxemic respiratory failure, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, multiple congenital anomalies, congenital and postnatally-acquired infection, and surgical problems.

The neonatology faculty maintains a very collegial relationship between the pediatric subspecialties and our program. I have no doubt that I will continue to develop the clinical skills necessary to competently and confidently take care of the broad spectrum of conditions that fall within the practice of neonatology.

Buffalonians are proud of the progress they are making as a city in recent years. There has been a renaissance through new industry, reutilization of historic sites, local businesses, and development of the waterfront. There is always a new restaurant or brewery to try out, often with new twists on classic Buffalo cuisines.

Having grown up in Puerto Rico, Buffalo has taught me to embrace seasons for the first time: learning ice sports, such as curling in the winter, walking the beautiful Elmwood Village neighborhoods to hear local musicians perform during Porchfest in the spring, touring the city by kayak in the summer, and taking part in the legendary Buffalo Bills tailgating in the fall.