Testimonies

Our Hospital was visited by the Croatian volleyball star, Samanta Fabris, for an advanced knee treatment method using microfragmented adipose tissue containing mesenchymal stem cells in combination with platelet-rich plasma (Angel PRP).

St. Catherine Specialty Hospital remains committed to personalized healthcare to ensure our patients receive the best treatments.

In the photo with our Vilim Molnar, M.D., Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery Resident.

Goran Ivanišević, the legendary name of Croatian tennis, according to many the greatest Croatian tennis player in history and the Wimbledon winner, entrusted his health to the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital.

In the photo with our Željko Jeleč, M. D., Ph. D., Assistant Professor, Orthopedic Surgeon.

Our hospital was visited by our famous and always smiling singer Danijela Martinović.

In the photo with our nurse Katarina Hrestak.

Donna Vekić entrusted his health to the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, who proudly takes care of the health of many top athletes.

In the photo with our Danijela Klarić, M.D., M. Sc., Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist; prof. Dragan Primorac, M. D., Ph. D. and Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist.

The first Croatian winner in the World Cup giant slalom race Filip Zubčić visited St. Catherine Specialty Hospital.

St. Catherine is the official hospital of the Croatian Ski Association and takes care of our ski racers.

In the photo with our cardiologist Dario Jelić, M.D., internal medicine specialist, cardiology subspecialist.

Ante Delija entrusted his health to the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, who proudly takes care of the health of many top athletes, and to our dr. Trpimir Vrdoljak, an orthopedic specialist with extensive experience in the treatment of acute and chronic injuries.

In the photo with our Ivanka Mesar, bacc. med. tech. and physiotherapist Renat Derković, bacc. physioth.

Croatian national football team member Mateo Kovačić visited the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital after great success at the World Football Championship in Qatar.

In the photo with prof. Dragan Primorac, M.D., Ph.D. and prof. Igor Borić, M.D., Ph.D.

Marko Mamić entrusted his health to St. Catherine and Damir Hudetz, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of orthopaedics with extensive international experience in the field of sports and orthopedic traumatology.

In the photo with our physiotherapist Renato Derkoviće, bacc. physioth.

One of the best Croatian football players and a former national football team member

St. Catherine Specialty Hospital is a well-known and recognized European Center of Excellence for Sports Medicine, to which Mario Mandžukić also entrusted his health.

In the photo with our nurse Katarina Hrestak.

Our hospital was visited by our famous musician Tony Cetinski and designer and musician Matteo Cetinski.

In the photo with our Peter Brlek, M.D. and our nurses Katarina Hrestak and Tihana Benčić.

I really have great confidence in Damir Hudetz, M.D., Ph.D., and therefore in the hospital he works for, St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, where I have been coming for many years to perform all examinations, especially those concerning sports injuries. To me, St. Catherine Hospital is actually a second home. I must also praise prof. Igor Borić, M.D., Ph.D., who is always at my disposal for all my problems and questions. The operation went great and I had no doubts about it, that's why I chose this hospital. Considering that I really appreciate the expertise of the St. Catherine's medical team and other additional advantages, from the beautiful environment to the really kind staff, I must definitely praise and recommend St. Catherine to everyone.

Nika Fleiss underwent knee arthroscopy with meniscal suturing in St. Catherine Specialty Hospital. The surgery was performed by Damir Hudetz, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Orthopedics.

Dr. Ivana delighted me, she is an extremely kind, warm and empathetic person. Very detailed and professional in her profession, and gentle and calm in her approach, which had a very encouraging and reassuring effect on me as a young woman and patient. I came here on a recommendation, now I see why. St. Catherine is a top Hospital and there is no feeling of discomfort, so I will definitely be back for anything when needed. A big compliment to all medical staff, and especially to my doctor Ivana Erceg Ivkošić, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor, OBG Subspecialist in Gynecologic Endocrinology, Human Reproduction and Menopausal Medicine.

In the photo with our Ivana Erceg Ivkošić, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor, OBG Subspecialist in Gynecologic Endocrinology, Human Reproduction and Menopausal Medicine.

I needed surgery because of the injury. I had a couple of options for surgery that I was thinking about, but in the end there was no doubt - I opted for St. Catherine Specialty Hospital and Trpimir Vrdoljak, M.D., orthopedic surgeon. The operation was successful and now I can say with certainty that I did not make a mistake by choosing St. Catherine Hospital. I have only words of praise for dr. Vrdoljak, but I must also praise the rest of the medical staff - nurses, other doctors, as well as physiotherapists who are helping me to recover as quickly as possible so I can return to my daily activities. They are all extremely professional and kind. It was a great experience and I would sincerely recommend St. Catherine to anyone. Now I still have to fully recover, but I am sure that the recovery, just like the operation, will be fast and successful.

In the photo with our nurses Ana Marija Fiket and Antonija Prugovečki and physiotherapist Renato Derković.

I would like to thank the entire medical team of St. Catherine Specialty Hospital on top service and professionalism. Sincere recommendations to all.

In the photo with Krunoslav Štefančić, bacc. med. rad., chief engineer of radiology

I am satisfied with the service in St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, I managed to do all medical examinations on time, without waiting. All doctors were very kind to me and that is why I feel good in St. Catherine Specialty Hospital."

In the photo with our prof. Renata Zadro, M.D., Ph.D., specialist in medical biochemistry and laboratory medicine.

I thank the entire team of St. Catherine on fast and professional service. A sincere recommendation to everyone.

At the photo with Krunoslav Štefančić, bacc. med. rad., after MRI

I'm extremely satisfied with the fast and professional service and I would like recommended St. Catherine Hospital to everyone.

At the photo with Krunoslav Štefančić, bacc. med. rad. and Zvonimir Matić, bacc. radiol. techn., after MRI

I am very pleased with the service at St. Catherine Specialty Hospital. I feel great after the surgery. Now follows physical rehabilitation. All praise for the entire medical team.

 The patient underwent knee arthroscopy using the most innovative method of treatment - Autologous micro-fragmented adipose tissue with mesenchymal stem cells and Arthrex Angel PRP (platelet-enriched plasma).

The procedure was performed by Fabijan Čukelj, prof., Ph. D., M. D., specialist in orthopedics, traumatology and sports medicine.

All recommendations to the team on a very kind approach and care they provide me. I came to the Hospital after contacting prof. Dragan Primorac, M. D., Ph. D., terribly distracted and under the shock of my own injury. After the operation and the approach of the whole team everything was easier and painless. Once again, I would like to thank from the bottom of my heart to Damir Hudetz, M. D., Ph. D., orthopedic specialist and Eduard Rod, M. D., Ph. D., Orthopedic Surgeon, who performed the operation and all the employees of the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital who provided me with security and maximum care.

In the first act the patient underwent an open reconstruction of the posterolateral angle and in the second act the patient will be underwent an reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with meniscus suturing.

The procedure was performed by Damir Hudetz, M. D., Ph. D., Orthopedic Specialist and Eduard Rod, M. D., Ph. D., Orthopedic Surgeon, specialization in traumatology of the locomotor system.

"Thank you all very much, you were all wonderful! Thank you so much for your humanity!” Ivana Dežić, player of ŽRK “Koka” Varaždin.

Our patient underwent reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with a reconstruction of the anterolateral ligament of the left knee. The procedure was performed by Eduard Rod, M.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon, a specialist in orthopedics, specialization in traumatology of the locomotor system.

Dear Ivana, thank you for trusting us! We wish you a speedy recovery!

Dino Rađa, a legend of Croatian basketball, successful NBA player and the member of the Hall of Fame talks about his experience with our Hospital. Dino is the fourth Croat who become a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

The patient underwent a minimally invasive procedure for the application of stem cells from adipose tissue in both knees in combination with the PRP method.

He waited three months to see the result of this special therapy and then pointed out that his right knee felt immediately better like somebody extinguish the fire.

The procedure was performed by Eduard Rod, M.D., Ph.D., Orthopedic Surgeon, specialization in traumatology of the locomotor system in coordination with prof. Dragan Primorac, M.D., Ph.D.

The service the last two time when I was here was amazing because of great people that are working here. For us it is most important to be healthy and to be free of injury. 

The stem cells treatment (application of micro-fragmented adipose tissue with stem cells) that I have recently received was executed perfectly and completely pain free. As a professional athlete I always need quick and efficient ways of making the pain go away. Stem cells treatment did exactly that. Perfectly executed procedure followed by greatly coordinated doctor-physiotherapist treatments did wonders for my knee and left me with nothing but praises for the whole St.Catherine hospital. I would like to thank you all for everything you have done for me!

I am very pleased with the care and quality approach by physicians and medical personnel. A very pleasant experience!

I am very satisfied with the overall service at St. Catharine Hospital. Everyone is very kind and the expertise of the doctors is great.

Thank you to all the staff at St. Catherine Hospital for exceptional cordiality and hospitality. Thank you nurses.

It was my first time to here. Everything is just great - top service, very pleasant ambience and kind staff.

I have only words of recommendation for St. Catherine Hospital. The operation in Zabok went great. Complete service and professionalism St. Catherine Hospital is at the highest level. The ambiance is great, everything is very clean and tidy. The medical staff is very nice and approachable. After surgery, I proceeded with physical therapies at St. Catherine Hospital and they helped me a lot. I feel great now.

After the surgery in St. Catherine Hospital, I feel great. I don’t feel any pain and I’m looking forward to speedy recovery. It seems I’ll recover even sooner than it was initially thought. Of course, I’d like to get back to the ice rink as soon as possible; I’m a professional ice-hockey player, that’s my life! However, I’m still not at ease with everything, which is normal after a spine surgery, but I’m surprised how good I’ve been feeling and that I can walk and sit down without any trouble.

The only thing on my mind from the moment I realized I would have to go for surgery, was that I wanted to get to my everyday activities as soon as possible. Therefore, the outstanding medical team of St. Catherine Specialty Hospital was the only reasonable choice. The surgery went great, and I would specially like to thank Dr. Damir Hudetz for everything.  

Two days ago you welcomed one of our athletes for a radiological checkup. Marko, our gymnast, was delighted with the overall treatment in your hospital, and we have already mentioned you in one of the most popular radio shows on Radio Rijeka. Special thanks to Dr. Borić. Kind regards to everyone. Keep up the good work and always stay the beacon of Croatian health care.

It was our desire to have medical care for Croatian team players under one roof, and that's why we are pleased that we have found a partner who, like us, is striving to be the best in what he does. As our players achieve global results, the hospital of St. Catherine in a short time has become a center of excellence for sports medicine. As a former player, I know how the health and medical care are important to every football player and I have no doubt that this contract will guarantee our players the best possible service in this context . When we talking about the hospitals , all that I can say is; St. Catherine Hospital is Space Shuttle among hospitals!

The injury that has followed me the last three years was the reason why I often went to MRI and to the consultation with Dr. Igor Borić in St. Catherine Hospital. I was always warmly welcomed by the professional staff, and everything was done quickly and efficiently, with doctors who have patience to clarify the diagnosis to the patient. From St. Catherine Hospital I always went encouraged by the positive impressions. I always recommend it to the friends and acquaintances, knowing that in the St. Catherine Hospital will find everything they need in one place.

Every person, especially an athlete, has difficult time handling injuries, St. Catherine Polyclinic staff has always been able to make those hard times much nicer with their expertise and professionalism, as well as with an excellent atmosphere in the polyclinic. Therefore, I would like to thank all the doctors, physiotherapists and the entire staff who have helped me to recover and become even stronger. Special thanks to Dr. Damir Hudetz.

Excellence in sport requires superior medical care. Therefore, the doctors and the St. Catherine hospital are part of my team. I know that when I’m there I am in the hands of experts.

I wish to spare no words of praise and thanks to St. Catherine hospital and polyclinic for all their expertise, professional care, diagnostics and services. St. Catherine Specialty Hospital is one of the few places in the world where I am certain to find in a single place all the care that I require, with top level physiotherapists and doctors who leave me no doubt that they will never fail to identify the diagnosis and pinpoint the cause of injury, leading me on the fastest way to a full recovery. My special thanks go to Dr. Borić and Professor Dragan Primorac for their continuing assistance and care, and also to physiotherapy personnel who are always there for me. I look forward to working with St. Catherine's team for a long time in order that I can stay healthy and get by with as few injuries as possible.

As a professional athlete and a tennis player, I’ve often had to deal with back injuries, knee injuries, shoulder and other joint injuries. In these cases, it’s crucial to quickly and accurately diagnose the source of the problem so that I could return to the court as soon as possible. In these cases, it’s comforting to know that I can rely on such a professional, kind and trustworthy team led by Dr. Borić who has always been and will continue to be ready to help me.

We had full confidence in experts of St. Catherine Hospital, and that was why we chose St. Catherine Hospital for Mathieu Carle’s spinal surgery. After that, St. Catherine Specialty hospital is for us and our players the first and only choice.

Here I am, coming for a checkup after six weeks since I had my surgery and I’m happily coming to St. Catherine, all spiffy and new, muscled up and slim as a twig!?!! I adore my Dr. Hudetz, and I’ve fallen in love with the entire team of nurses and doctors both in St. Catherine Hospital in Zabok, and here in Trpinjska street!
What amazed me was that I literally felt no pain – I was very skeptical at first towards my wonderful anesthesiologist who kept assuring me I would feel no pain – and I thought to myself ‘keep telling it to someone else, I’m not buying it’, I knew what was in store for me –TEP – total knee endoprosthesis – however, I literally felt no pain, throughout the surgery, post-surgery, to this day, nothing, zero pain! My dear nurses from St. Catherine would also pay me a visit while I was in a spa for my recovery. They would even bring me some wine and pancetta…
Kisses to you Kristina, Daria, Renato, Katarina, and Marko and to all of you hard working, professional and kind hearted people!

I had a severe fracture of my leg, my knee dropped out of its socket, my ligaments tore, cartilage, as well. I was in so much pain, that I’ve lost consciousness. After that, it was hard to get by, after every physically strenuous exercise my knee would fill up with water, I went through hundreds of drainages, painstaking therapy, oh, I went through a lot ... After the stem cell application I’m able to train today, my knee is dry and I definitely think the stem cell treatment is the future. So my cartilage is restored, it’s regenerating. I’d like to thank the entire staff of St. Catherine Specialty Hospital!

My knee is now great again and I have to thank Dr. Igor Borić for that, and the entire St. Catherine Specialty hospital staff. They were with me every step of the way and I had to literally come there every single day for a treatment. Dr. Borić was kind to respond to all my worries, even at 2am when I would call him worried about my swollen knee.

I’d like to thank St. Catherine Specialty Hospital on showing excellence in every segment of their work. They are truly worthy of every award they’ve received so far. Special thanks to everyone from the management, to the doctors, wonderful nurses, all the way to the cleaning staff who have greeted me every morning with a smile while entering my hospital room.  The nurses are amazing, giving support 24/7. The doctors are true experts, but also very warm, kind and patient while offering you words of support. It is without any question that I have to give my special thanks to Dr. Rod who performed my surgery and explained its every detail to me. The physiotherapists are the top of their profession. In the end, I’d like to express a huge gratitude to a great expert and a great man, Dr. Dragan Primorac!

I would sincerely like to thank the entire staff of St. Catherine Hospital for helping me to overcome my first obstacle to reaching Olympic Games. As a sign of gratitude, I’d like to dedicate one of my future medals to the staff of my favorite hospital!

Dear St. Catherine’s staff,
Our little Vinko, his Mom and I are absolutely amazed by your hospital, and we can’t find enough words to thank you for everything you’ve done for us.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the amazing work you do and the way you do it!

Even though I've had surgery here and I know this a hospital, I didn't feel like I was in a hospital, and believe me I know what I'm talking about as this has, unfortunately, been my sixth surgery, but the first one in St. Catherine. The rooms in the hospital are so nice and comfortable that I felt like I was in a hotel for preparations with the team and got a minor injury and had to go through a little bit of physical therapy. But this is even better, because in the evening people could come to visit me.
Of course the most important thing I need to mention is the staff, and they are the most important and the best! I don't have to speak about how professional and top quality experts they are because everybody in Croatia and beyond knows that the best doctors and experts are working here with the best possible diagnostic equipment. Among other things, that was what brought me here.
First and foremost I have to thank my longtime friend, Dr. Boric who always finds a way to help me and makes some time for me and for my medical issues even if it's a case of rash. I'd like to thank Dr. Hudetz who talked to me as if we've been friends for 100s of years and with such clarity explained everything that all the fear I've previously had vanished immediately.
Finally, I have to give special thanks to Marko, the physiotherapist who gave his best and worked so hard with me that the progress I felt in 3 days of working with him gave me confidence that I would be able to return to the pitch in  6 weeks instead of months.  In these difficult moments, he was also the one who provided me with enormous optimism and support.
I would kindly ask all the nurses and all the employees of St. Catherine not to get angry because I didn't mention each and every one of them, but I have only one thing to say: you are all AMAZING!!!
Thank you very, very much!

I’m back! Good as new, back on my feet! No pain, no swelling on my knee and I can do sports again. I feel reborn. Instead of implanting an artificial joint, the medical team decided to transplant my meniscal knee, and it was done arthroscopically. I would like to thank everyone, the entire St. Catherine Specialty Hospital medical team and to my doctor Dr. Hudetz. You are the best!

I would like to thank the entire St. Catherine Specialty Hospital team!
We all experience the fear of injuries, of surgeries, even we, the top athletes have it, and we have a lot of experience with it, however, even from the first step to your hospital that fear almost completely vanished. Your staff is very kind and likeable, the doctors are absolute top of their profession, and what can I say? All of you are the absolute best at what you do.
I’m very glad to have started my treatment with you, where I feel safe and am certain that I’m in the right hands.
Special thank you to Dr. Eduard Rod and Dr. Ira Skok!

Thanks a lot, everyone who brought back the smile on my face with their professional strength. Thank you sisters, thank you thank you thank you Mark, thank you Dr. Rod!

My anterior cruciate ligament surgery was done in St. Catherine. Thank you very much! Great staff! All recommendation goes for St. Catherine!

Great medical care. I felt like a king. All staff are for every recommendation. Great hospital atmosphere! I know it sounds weird, but I'm sorry to have to leave the hospital. I feel great, airy and cheerful after surgery, and you really don't expect that after surgery ... Thanks for everything!

You know when you are here that everything will go in the best way. You need to have the best team around you and here are the best team, so we are very happy to have this people in Croatia.

Obviously it is so important for a footballer to take care of his body. I personally have good experience with St. Catherine Specialty Hospital. I always feel safe to come there. I´m realy happy that this partnership will go further on.

It was unforgettable, relaxed and the staff is top notch. They knew how to reduce the my stress during the MR scan which I refered to as the bread oven! I Hope to meet them in my cellar for the second time at a real bread oven! Thank you very much!

I never thought I would need this procedure. I had a knee injury. I came to from St. Catherine on recommendation by my friend. My operation was successful. The medical staff is very professional and friendly.