Orthopaedic

The Orthopaedic Unit at JDWNRH is the primary referral center for orthopedic care in Bhutan. Established in the early 1970s, the unit initially relied on expatriate surgeons and limited resources. Since 1999, with the addition of Bhutanese orthopedic surgeons and continued support from the Health Volunteer Overseas (HVO) program, the department has made significant advancements in skill and equipment. Today, the unit provides comprehensive orthopedic services, specializing in trauma management and elective orthopedic procedures.

Vision

To be the leading orthopedic care provider in Bhutan, delivering accessible and high-quality musculoskeletal care across the country.

  • To offer specialized orthopedic services, enhancing the health and mobility of patients through both urgent and planned care.
  • To train and develop orthopedic healthcare professionals to serve across Bhutan.
  • To expand orthopedic services and facilities to meet growing healthcare demands.
  • Compassion: Providing patient-centered care with empathy.
  • Excellence: Striving for high standards in orthopedic treatments and surgeries.
  • Innovation: Utilizing advanced surgical techniques and technology.
  • Growth: Investing in training and expansion to meet nationwide needs.

Inpatient Care

30-bed capacity dedicated to orthopedic inpatients, with daily ward rounds.

Outpatient Clinics

Six days a week, managing both new patients and follow-ups.

Surgical Services

Routine orthopedic surgeries are performed twice weekly on Mondays and Thursdays, with emergency surgical services available 24/7.

Specialized Orthopedic Services

  • Fracture Care: Acute and late-presenting fractures.
  • Bone and Joint Infections: Including tuberculosis and chronic infections.
  • Pediatric Orthopedics: Treating musculoskeletal issues specific to children.
  • Elective and Corrective Surgery: Includes arthroscopic surgery and joint correction procedures.
  • Sports and Hand Injury Care: Management of injuries from sports and trauma to the hands and extremities.
  • Spine Care: Treatment of spinal issues, including sciatica, trauma, and infections.

Common clinical problems treated at the department include:

  • Fractures: Care for both acute and chronic fractures.
  • Bone and Joint Infections: Including tuberculosis.
  • Spinal Conditions: Sciatica, spinal trauma, and infections.
  • Bone Tumors: Both benign and malignant types.
  • Arthritis and Tendonitis: Management of joint pains, particularly hip and knee.
  • Burn Management: Specialized treatment for burns on the extremities.
  • Pediatric Musculoskeletal Disorders
  • Sports Injuries and Hand Trauma

With rising incidences of traumatic injuries due to increased motor vehicle usage, the department aims to expand its capacity and services, focusing on:

  • Spine Surgery
  • Sports Medicine
  • Joint Replacement Surgery
  • Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
  • Pediatric Orthopedic Care

Additionally, the department prioritizes training Bhutanese orthopedic technicians and surgeons to ensure availability of skilled orthopedic professionals in all district hospitals. Currently, two Bhutanese physicians are undergoing postgraduate orthopedic training in Thailand, with plans for their future involvement in the department’s expansion initiatives.

The Orthopaedic Department collaborates with the RIHS to enroll two candidates annually in orthopedic technician training, aiming to staff district hospitals with orthopedic technicians. It is also responsible for selecting candidates for future postgraduate orthopedic training, supporting the goal of increasing the number of Bhutanese orthopedic surgeons nationwide.

 

  • Beds: 30 fully utilized beds for inpatient care.
  • Routine Clinics: 6 days per week, with a high volume of consultations.
  • Emergency Services: Available 24/7 for trauma and urgent orthopedic care.
  • Training: Continuous support and development for orthopedic technicians and future surgeons.
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