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MMMH&MC’s orthopedic surgery joint replacement mission: Transforming lives one joint at a time

Surgical setup at the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center. The surgeon is performing total hip replacement and is assisted by a surgical resident and a scrub nurse. The hospital can cater up to 5 cases per day, a testament to its mission of being a premiere center of excellence in healthcare in Ilocos region.


By Michael Sylvestre A. Saturnino

City of Batac—The Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMH&MC) in Ilocos Norte is a beacon of hope for patients suffering from the effects of severe knee osteoarthritis and hip osteoarthritis or fractures. Through the invaluable leadership of Dr. Maria Lourdes K. Otayza, medical center chief, and Dr. Jose B. Orosa III, chief of medical professional staff and the financial support from the office of Ilocos Norte first district Congressman Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos, the hospital conducted a life-changing hip and knee replacement mission, providing essential surgical care to those who otherwise may not have access to such procedures.

Knee and hip osteoarthritis are conditions that can cause chronic pain, reduced mobility and loss of independence, severely impacting the quality of life of patients. For severe cases of osteoarthritis, joint replacement may be the only viable solution to treat the condition. Similarly, patients with hip fractures face significant challenges, as most of them will be bedridden after the injury. The joint replacement mission at MMMH&MC catered to these patients, offering them a chance to regain their function and improve their overall well-being.

This activity is also a testament to the dedication of the hospital’s medical staff and the seamless collaboration between various departments towards better healthcare in the province. The operating room at MMMH&MC headed by Dr. Constate Rabe, catered up to five cases of joint replacement with the help of the nurses and attendants. Their efficiency and expertise were evident in the safe induction of anesthesia to the patients, smooth-running surgeries and on-time transition of patients without compromising the quality of care.

From left: Drs. Mico Saturnino, Stephen Tabladillo, Rey de la Rosa, Kyle Pavia; Pacific Surgical Inc. (PSI) Head of Joints Division Mr. Ace Bernarte and Manager Bryan Catura; Dr. Chin Ekesiobi and PSI Joints Associate Mr. Rowel Ramirez.

Last July 27, 2024, Dr. Rey Tomas de la Rosa, a distinguished joint replacement surgeon from the Philippine Orthopedic Center attended the event and was notably impressed with the facilities at MMM&HC and the workmanship demonstrated by the operating room personnel. He noted that the hospital maintains a high standard of patient care even with a very long list of patients being operated on in a single day. Dr. de la Rosa’s observation reflects the hospital’s commitment to excellence and its role as the premier center of advanced healthcare in the region.

The joint replacement mission at Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center is more than just a medical service—it is a life-changing experience for patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis. Through the supervision of the Dept. of Health and the combined efforts of dedicated healthcare professionals from MMMH&MC headed by Dr. Otayza and the Dept. of Orthopedics chairman, Dr. Stephen B. Tabladillo, and the unwavering commitment of Congressman Sandro Marcos, this mission continues to provide invaluable care to those in need, changing lives one joint at a time.


Mrs. Mitra showing the finger heart after undergoing total hip replacement.

Mrs. Mitra has been experiencing severe chronic hip pain secondary to osteoarthritis on her left hip. She was able to stand up and walk the day after her surgery. Her recovery has been remarkable, and she now looks forward to resuming her daily activities with newfound ease and comfort. The supportive team of healthcare professionals played a crucial role in her journey, providing her with the care and encouragement she needed every step of the way.

Mrs. Mitra's positive experience serves as an inspiration to many who might be hesitant about undergoing such a procedure. She actively shares her story with friends and family, emphasizing the importance of seeking timely medical advice and not letting chronic pain dictate one's life.

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