Orthopedic Team Surveys Needs in Pohnpei

9/27/01

On August 20-24, a Canvasback orthopedic team traveled to Pohnpei, F.S.M., to survey the orthopedic needs and provide services to patients with joint and bone difficulties at the Pohnpei Hospital.  After thoroughly assessing 153 patients, the team provided services ranging from simple surgeries and pain-relieving joint injections to physiotherapy instruction and a group lecture on back pain.

Team members included orthopedic surgeons Ken Lorenz, M.D., and William Schuler, M.D.; and clinic coordinator Lauren Petford, R.N.  The value of the services provided was $45,860.

The team found a number of patients needing future surgeries for carpal tunnel and even total joint replacement, and are looking for suppliers to donated surgical supplies and lend surgical instruments for this purpose.

Left: When Salina came in to the orthopedic clinic, she was leaning backward on a chair and dragging it behind her because she could not walk. The gift of a walker will
make a world of difference in her life.

Right: Dr. Lorenz injects medication into trigger points help to alleviate to painful joints.

Below:  Back pain is a common but aggravating problem for the islanders.  Dr. Lorenz also lectured on pain management. 

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