Welcome back to Cut Sheet, where Dr. Patrick Bays, an experienced orthopedic surgeon and regenerative medicine specialist, shares incredible real-life cases from his medical career. These stories reveal the remarkable resilience of patients and the groundbreaking techniques that have transformed their lives.
In this episode, Dr. Bays recounts three unforgettable cases from the devastating Mount Pinatubo earthquake in 1990. These stories highlight the complexity of treating traumatic injuries and the power of modern medicine to restore hope.
Case 1: Michael’s Severed Tendons
Michael, a middle-aged teacher, was pulled from the rubble of his collapsed school in Baguio, Philippines. A metal fragment from the falling building had sliced through his palm, severing eight flexor tendons and multiple nerves in what surgeons call “no-man’s land”—one of the most challenging areas of the hand to repair.
Michael’s injury rendered his hand nonfunctional, as he could no longer flex his fingers or feel sensation in several of them. Repairs in “no-man’s land” require meticulous microvascular techniques to prevent scar tissue and ensure proper tendon movement.
Dr. Bays carefully sutured each severed tendon and nerve using microscopic precision and a suture finer than a human hair. After surgery, Michael’s hand was stabilized in a specialized splint to protect the repair. Thanks to this meticulous approach, Michael began to regain movement and sensation, restoring critical functionality to his hand.
Case 2: Wanda’s Hip Fracture
Wanda, a 60-year-old woman, was thrown down a flight of stairs during the earthquake, landing violently on her right hip. Her leg was visibly shortened and rotated, signaling a serious intertrochanteric hip fracture.
Hip fractures in elderly patients are often complicated by weakened bones, making swift surgical intervention crucial for recovery.
Dr. Bays used a Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) to stabilize Wanda’s fracture. This minimally invasive procedure involved inserting screws under specialized imaging for precise alignment. Within a day, Wanda began physical therapy and was bearing partial weight on her leg, quickly regaining her mobility.
Case 3: Sam’s Fight Against Crush Syndrome
Sam survived nearly 30 hours trapped under debris, signaling his rescuers by tapping on a water pipe. When he was finally freed, he arrived at Jungle General Hospital in critical condition, suffering from crush syndrome—a life-threatening condition caused by prolonged muscle compression, leading to systemic organ failure.
Sam’s injuries included severe necrosis of both lower limbs, fractures, and infections caused by flesh-eating bacteria. His condition required immediate, aggressive intervention.
Dr. Bays performed multiple compartment fasciotomies, amputations, and surgical debridements to remove necrotic tissue. Despite heroic efforts and countless transfusions, Sam’s condition deteriorated. Yet, before passing, Sam fulfilled his dream of becoming an honorary United States Marine, surrounded by his family, medical team, and a contingent of Marines.
Sam’s incredible strength and determination left an enduring legacy, inspiring those who cared for him and countless others.
The Power of Modern Medicine in Disaster Recovery
Each of these cases underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative potential of advanced surgical care. From intricate hand repairs to life-saving fasciotomies, Dr. Bays’ expertise in orthopedic surgery and regenerative medicine has provided patients with renewed hope and function in the most challenging circumstances.
Hear the Full Story From Dr. Bays
Looking Ahead
Dr. Bays and the team at CurPoint Orthopedic are dedicated to offering state-of-the-art treatments that restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. Through traditional surgical techniques and cutting-edge regenerative medicine, they strive to provide personalized care for each patient’s unique needs.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Cut Sheet, where we explore more extraordinary stories of resilience and recovery. If you’re seeking advanced care for joint pain, trauma, or orthopedic injuries, contact us today to learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
