Welcome back to Cut Sheet, where Dr. Patrick Bays, an experienced orthopedic surgeon and regenerative medicine specialist, shares remarkable true stories from his career. These cases illustrate the triumph of modern medical techniques and human resilience in the face of extraordinary challenges.
In this episode, Dr. Bays recounts three compelling cases: a Marine with a serious knee injury, a Filipino hose diver suffering from decompression sickness, and a Navy SEAL injured in a dynamite fishing explosion.
Case 1: Johnny D and the Unhappy Triad
During the coup d’état against Philippine President Corazon Aquino in December 1989, Marine Johnny D sustained a severe knee injury while rappelling from a helicopter. A twisting impact caused immediate pain, swelling, and instability in his knee.
Johnny D’s injury was diagnosed as the “unhappy triad of O’Donoghue,” which includes tears to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and medial meniscus. Left untreated, these injuries could compromise his mobility and quality of life.
Dr. Bays performed an arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using a graft from Johnny D’s patellar tendon, repaired the MCL, and removed the torn meniscus. Months later, Johnny D required a second surgery to address an osteochondral defect. Using a revolutionary microfracture technique, Dr. Bays stimulated bone marrow stem cells to regenerate the damaged cartilage.
After eight months, Johnny D fully recovered and returned to active Marine duty, pain-free and with restored knee function.
Case 2: Francisco’s Brush with Decompression Sickness
Francisco, a 22-year-old Filipino hose diver, presented at Jungle General Hospital with symptoms of decompression sickness (DCS) after surfacing too quickly from a 60-80 foot dive. Known as “the bends,” DCS occurs when dissolved gases in the blood form bubbles, causing severe pain, neurological issues, and even paralysis or death.
Francisco exhibited symptoms including joint pain, numbness, confusion and difficulty walking. Without immediate treatment, he risked permanent neurological damage or death.
Dr. Bays coordinated Francisco’s urgent treatment with a Diving Medical Officer. Francisco was transported to a recompression chamber, where high-pressure oxygen therapy reduced the nitrogen bubbles in his bloodstream. After treatment, his symptoms resolved completely, sparing him from life-altering complications.
Case 3: A Navy SEAL and the Dynamite Fishing Incident
While training near Subic Bay, a Navy SEAL was injured in an underwater explosion caused by illegal dynamite fishing. The blast left him with a fractured clavicle, two broken ribs (one of which caused a collapsed lung), a ruptured eardrum, and a concussion.
The SEAL’s complex injuries required immediate stabilization, including chest tube insertion for his collapsed lung, treatment for his concussion, and surgery for his clavicle fracture.
Dr. Bays performed a surgical fixation of the fractured clavicle using a reconstruction plate and bone graft harvested from the SEAL’s iliac crest. Over eight weeks, the clavicle healed completely, and the SEAL regained full range of motion without pain.
This case highlights the dangers of dynamite fishing and the precision required to treat blast-related injuries in combat environments.
The Role of Advanced Techniques in Recovery
From cutting-edge microfracture surgery to life-saving recompression therapy, this episode showcases the power of advanced medical techniques. Whether rebuilding a Marine’s knee, saving a diver from paralysis, or repairing blast injuries, Dr. Bays demonstrates how innovative approaches can restore function and hope.
Hear the Full Story From Dr. Bays
Looking Ahead
Dr. Bays and the team at CurPoint Orthopedic are committed to providing advanced treatments that enhance mobility, reduce pain, and improve lives. Through traditional orthopedic surgery and regenerative medicine, they deliver personalized care to meet every patient’s unique needs.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Cut Sheet, where more extraordinary stories of resilience and recovery await. If you or a loved one need expert orthopedic care, contact us today to learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
