Day Three

Today we had yet another great day. Patients were mobilized with Physical Therapy and discharged home doing wonderfully. However, at this point in time we would be remiss if we did not recognize our incredibly talented group of surgeons who are the key to this great mission.

Drs. Thornhill, Burke, Fitz, Mattingly and Dalury are some of the most talented surgeons in their field. To be able to operate with them is an honor and a privilege. The thoughtfulness and precision with which these men approach each case is incredible and inspiring to their residents. As much as we privileged and lucky to interact with the wonderful patients of Opwalk Boston, we are equally lucky to be able to interact with their surgeons. Today each of our four operating theatres operated upon three patients performing no less than five Total Joint Replacements. The Anesthesia and Surgical Teams worked together in complete harmony and cases went quickly and smoothly with patients transferring to the floor in as little as 45 minutes on some occasions. It should be noted that the severity of the deformity and disease experienced in the Dominican Republich is significantly greater than that experienced in the United States. The ease with which these surgeons are able to control and overcome the technical challenges are literally world class.

We would be remiss if we did not mention the generosity of Depuy at this point in time. All of the implants, totalling hundreds of thousands of dollars are donated free of cost or obligation. Throughout the day they carefully track our inventory and ensure that we are prepared not only for the challenges of the current case but the cases to come later in the week. Their gift literally changes the lives of our patients and we are eternally grateful for that.

Tomorrow we have our final full day of operations, after which we will transition to Rehabilitation Mode where we will highlight the amazing work done by the Physical Therapy and Nursing staff.


                                

                    

                  Collin May (Chief Resident) completing a bone cut during a Total Knee Replacement with Dr. Thornhill

                                              

Opwalk Boston Depuy Team

Chief Medical Officer Ellen Fitzpatrick performing a post operative check



Dr. Thornhill and Dr. Burke performing bilateral total knee replacements



Patient post operative day 2 walking without pain

Sarah and Yvette (OR nurses from BWH)