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LECOM Scholar Receives Future of Osteopathic Medicine Award

The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) is proud to celebrate an outstanding achievement by fourth-year medical scholar Victoria Estevez, who was honored with the Future of Osteopathic Medicine Award from the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association (FOMA) for her research presentation at the Annual FOMA Poster Competition held on February 5, 2026.

Estevez presented her poster entitled, Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion Sequence with Acardius Acormus: The Role of 3D Imaging and Pelvimetry in Obstetric Planning,  as part of the annual competition.

The project explores the role of advanced imaging techniques in the planning and management of a rare and complex obstetric condition, highlighting the potential of innovative imaging approaches to support clinical decision-making and improve patient care.

Estevez conducted the research alongside fellow fourth-year student, Alexandria Zarilla, under the mentorship of Murat Ibatullin, MD, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Neurosurgery and Radiology at LECOM-Bradenton.

The recognition from FOMA is a testament not only to Estevez’s dedication to research and academic excellence, but also to the collaborative efforts of Zarilla and Dr. Ibatullin.  Their work demonstrates the value of interdisciplinary research and the important role medical students can play in advancing knowledge and exploring innovative approaches to challenging clinical cases.

As future physicians, Estevez and Zarilla exemplify the curiosity, dedication, and commitment to lifelong learning that are essential to the osteopathic medical profession and indispensable at LECOM.