Hip surgery in Colombia transforms the life of an Ecuadorian after 11 years of pain

Bucaramanga, Colombia, January 2025. José Vicente Endara Vélez, a 59-year-old farmer from Guayaquil, Ecuador, spent more than a decade coping with the debilitating effects of advanced hip osteoarthritis. The condition was diagnosed while he was living in the United States, after experiencing persistent pain in his right groin that hindered his ability to work and engage in physical activities. Following several medical evaluations, it was confirmed that he suffered from progressive cartilage degradation. Although he received palliative treatments such as injections, specialists warned that a total hip replacement was the only definitive solution.

Over time, the pain worsened, severely impacting his daily life. “After 11 years of intense pain and an increasingly limited quality of life, the last few years were especially challenging, with such severe restrictions that I couldn’t perform basic daily tasks. That’s when I realized it was time to undergo surgery. My insurance provider in Ecuador conducted extensive research to identify the best options, including specialists and hospitals throughout the region, even in the United States. Among the recommended options, the Hospital Internacional de Colombia (HIC) stood out,” José recounts.

However, making the decision was far from easy. “I have an immense fear of surgery—a phobia that has always paralyzed me. I even sought psychological help to cope with it but didn’t continue the treatment. I thought it was worth enduring the pain, even though it was unbearable. There were days when I could barely work; I would leave the house, do the bare minimum, and return. Once home, I had to stand by the car door for about 10 minutes to gather the strength to walk because after driving, taking a step without excruciating pain was impossible,” he recalls.

Despite his fears, he knew change was necessary. “I had heard about hip replacements here in Ecuador, but the idea terrified me. I consulted at least five doctors, and all told me the same thing: I needed surgery. However, the detailed explanations of the procedure only heightened my anxiety and resistance. It was a decision I postponed for years, but I finally realized I couldn’t continue living this way,” he concludes.

The hip replacement was performed by Dr. Luis Alberto Salazar Gamboa, a specialist in orthopedics and traumatology, who carried out a total uncemented hip replacement, first on the right hip and, two years later, on the left. Both procedures utilized prostheses specifically designed to ensure efficient integration with the bone and long-term durability.

“Severe pain and progressive loss of mobility in both hips were key factors in deciding to proceed with surgery,” explains Dr. Salazar. “We opted for an uncemented procedure, which provides longer-lasting results and better adapts to the patient’s specific needs.” Each surgery, lasting approximately three hours, was conducted under strict safety protocols to minimize risks such as infections, discrepancies in leg length, or thromboembolic complications.

The long-term prognosis is highly favorable. “These prostheses have an estimated lifespan of 20 to 25 years, provided the patient avoids falls or accidents that could compromise the hips,” says Dr. Salazar. “Success also depends on maintaining a healthy weight, adopting appropriate habits, and avoiding high-impact activities.” José Vicente Endara was able to return to work two months after each surgery, resuming an active and pain-free life.

José Endara describes his recovery as a radical change. “My fear of surgery paralyzed me for years, but after the procedure, all that suffering disappeared. Now I ask myself why I didn’t make this decision earlier, as it not only affected me but also my family.” The surgery not only eliminated his pain but also allowed him to resume basic activities such as walking effortlessly or tying his shoes—tasks that once seemed impossible.

During his stay at the HIC, Endara highlighted the comprehensive care he received. “Dr. Salazar not only demonstrated great professionalism but also exceptional humanity. The entire medical team was attentive to me at every stage of the process, and that made all the difference in my recovery,” he says.

Both procedures allowed him to regain functionality within approximately two months, after which he returned to an active and unrestricted routine. “My message to those facing this decision is clear: don’t let fear hold you back. This surgery not only restored my mobility but also gave me back the ability to enjoy life,” he affirms.

Recalling a special moment, Endara shared: “Dr. Salazar showed me the image of my prosthesis and said, ‘This is the result of our work, and my greatest satisfaction is seeing you walk again.’ Those words perfectly reflect the positive impact this procedure has had on my life.”

José Endara’s case not only reflects his personal transformation but also highlights the recognition of the HIC as an international leader in treating complex conditions.

According to Dr. Luis Salazar, this case illustrates how patients rely on scientific criteria and international references when choosing medical institutions. “Many people carefully evaluate the available options, analyze recommendations, and trust our medical-scientific expertise following interviews and detailed assessments, often choosing our institution over other previously considered alternatives,” he states.

The success of these procedures, Dr. Salazar adds, is based on the combination of advanced technology, patient-centered care, strict safety protocols, and the expertise of a highly skilled team in managing complex conditions. “These elements are essential for both national and international patients to choose our institution as a reference center. Our commitment is to maintain the highest standards, providing care that not only meets expectations but profoundly transforms quality of life,” he concludes.