The LBJ Tropical Medical Center (LBJTMC) recently completed its first-ever total hip replacement surgery within the territory.
The operation, was conducted under the oversight of Dr. Robert Blotter, with support from members of the Orthopedic Department, including Dr. Sitiveni Traill, Dr. “Mike” Kislitcyn, and Dr. Rubie Espinosa.
Dr. Akapusi Ledua, the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, said, “We commend Dr. Blotter’s local execution of the surgery, which provided crucial hands-on training for the physicians within the Orthopedic Department and aligned with the hospital’s strategic objective of offering advanced surgical procedures locally, thus eliminating the need to send patients abroad for such interventions.”
He added, “This not only offered vital practical experience for the medical professionals in the Orthopedic Department, but also closely adhered to the hospital’s strategic goal of providing cutting-edge surgical treatments within the community.
“This approach eliminates the necessity of sending patients overseas for such medical procedures, thus benefitting both patients and the local healthcare system.”
Dr. Blotter, a distinguished fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, lauded the inclusion of local total hip replacement surgeries in the LBJ Orthopedic Services suite. He emphasized the profound impact of extending care to individuals on the island grappling with orthopedic issues but facing limitations in seeking treatment overseas.
Dr. Blotter also praised the collaborative efforts of the entire Orthopedic Department, acknowledging their pivotal role in ensuring the success of this transformative operation.
“The collective contributions of the Orthopedic Department, complemented by the unwavering assistance provided by the operating room (OR) staff, including surgical nurses and additional personnel, were instrumental in orchestrating the safe and proficient execution of these pioneering surgeries,” said Dr. Blotter.
