Testimonies
Dušanka Kemenović
Operative treatment – Vertebroplasty
"I came to St. Catherine Specialty Hospital with full confidence. All the information I was interested in, I found on the website of St. Catherine. I was looking for a place where I can do everything I need in one place. Looking through the website and the experiences of other patients, there was no longer any doubt - St. Catherine Specialty Hospital is the right place for me. My problems were related to the spine. Namely, I had severe pain in my spine, and right away at the first examination with the Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist, I was diagnosed with a fracture. Within 5 days, all pre-operative preparations were arranged, and then I had a surgery, which solved my problem. Despite the fact that it was a major surgical procedure, I came to it as the most beautiful trip, because I had complete trust in the doctor and the entire medical staff, and I felt safe there. The procedure was successful, and I am delighted with absolutely everyone and everything: Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., and the entire operating team, the medical staff in the department, as well as with the accommodation and food, which even exceeded expectations. Now I feel calm, happy and peaceful. A truly beautiful experience. My sincere recommendations to everyone."
The patient underwent vertebroplasty. The procedure was performed by Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist.
In the photo with the nurse Irena Skozrit.
Tomislav Vinšer
Croatia
Microdiscectomy with a lateral approach
"First of all, a big thanks to the entire team of St. Catherine Hospital. I suffered from terrible back pain, causing me to lose consciousness. The pain was so strong that I couldn't speak or walk. After several examinations, I was told in the another institution that they don't know what to do with me. When I came to St. Catherine Hospital for an examination with Marjan Rožanković, M.D. ,Ph.D., Consultant Neurosurgeon, upon reviewing my medical records, he immediately understood the issue. You instilled in me such confidence and trust, proving your expertise. Above all, I didn't feel just like another patient in line. Now, after the surgery, I have no pain. I cannot thank everyone enough. You set the standard very high and are a true example of how things should be done."
The patient underwent microdiscectomy with a lateral approach. The procedure was performed by Marjan Rožanković, M.D., Ph.D., Consultat Neurosurgeon.
In the photo with prof. Dragan Primorac, M.D., Ph,D. and the head nurse of the department Jasminka Stanić.
Danica Milčetić
Decompression of the neural sac and spinal nerve roots (spine surgery)
"I want to emphasize how comfortable I feel here from the very beginning. I am highly satisfied with the service. The nurses always came to my room with a smile. I previously struggled to walk alone, and now, just one day after the surgery, I am already on my feet. I feel the need to express my gratitude to everyone. I am looking forward to a successful recovery."
The patient underwent decompression of the neural sac and spinal nerve roots (spine surgery). The procedure was performed by Assistant professor Vjerislav Peterković, M.D., Ph.D., neurosurgeon.
In the photo with physiotherapist Domagoj Brkanac..
Ruža Fonović
Vertebroplasty
„I want to thank the doctors of the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital who helped me solve my problems and I no longer feel pain in my spine. The entire medical team delighted me with their expertise but also with their human approach. They made every examination, as well as the stay after the surgery pleasant and easy for me. I would recommend treatment at the St. Catherine Hospital, here they will solve your problems quickly and professionally."
The patient underwent vertebroplasty. The procedure was performed by Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist.
In the photo with Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist and Danijela Klarić, M.D., M. Sc., Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist.
Zoja Kapilović Bego
Revision surgery of the lumbar spine: corpectomy, decompression of the spinal canal, stabilization and fusion of the L4-S1 vertebra.
"It's been 7 days since the operation. I feel great. Dr. Bilić literally saved my life. I'm sure that otherwise I would have been in a wheelchair within a month. In February, I had an operation at another health institution and the operation did not go well, that's why I found salvation here. I found out about St. Catherine Specialty Hospital on the recommendation of Mrs. Mirjana, who knows the state-of-the-art methods of Prof. Primorac and his team at St. Catherine Specialty Hospital. Everyone is wonderful and kind. I want everyone to know about this wonderful place because they save lives here."
The patient underwent revision surgery of the lumbar spine: corpectomy, decompression of the spinal canal, stabilization and fusion of the L4-S1 vertebra. The procedure was performed by Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D. General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist.
In the photo with assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D. and prof. Dragan Primorac, M.D., Ph.D.
Dragan Šćepanović
Croatia
Minimally invasive decompression of the lumbar spine at the L3-L4 level and decompression of the carpal tunnel
„I came to the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital through a recommendation. Dr. Bilić made an examination and within 3-4 days everything was already arranged. I did all the tests for the operation in St. Catherine Specialty Hospital within 2 hours, while elsewhere it would take several days. Everything is military and exact. There is no delay, if it was agreed at 10:00 a.m. - it was at 10:00 a.m. I can't praise enougt the nurses . I really have never experienced this level of service anywhere. I must also praise Dr. Bilić, who explained me everything in detal and with a loto f patience, until I understood everything. It is important to me that, with his unquestionable expertise, he can also explain it in layman's terms so that I really understand him. An extremely correct and frendly doctor."
The patient underwent minimally invasive decompression of the lumbar spine at the L3-L4 level and decompression of the carpal tunnel. The procedure was performed by Assistant professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D. General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist.
Dijana Žigman
Croatia
Lumbar Microdiscectomy - Minimally Invasive Operation of the Lumbar Spine
First of all, I would like to highlight the very kind, friendly, and very helpful staff of St. Catherine. Every employee has a smile on its face, and is ready to help and give professional advice at any time. What I especially want to emphasize is the detailed preoperative preparation and treatment, as well as the course of the operative procedure itself - this is a completely different, top level. Due to the very good and high-quality relations of the medical staff mutually and the hospital's multidisciplinary approach, I felt comfortable and completely safe. The apartment I stayed in was very spacious, and I would definitely like to emphasize the level of cleanliness and orderliness of the room. Indeed, every honor and praise for St. Catherine Specialty Hospital in every segment. Finally, I want to thank my doctor and operator Marjan Rožanković, M.D., Ph.D., Consultant Neurosurgeon, for whom I came to St. Catherine. He is truly a real expert for whom I have only good words and praise, as well as for the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital in general.
The patient underwent Lumbar Microdiscectomy (Minimally Invasive Operation of the Lumbar Spine). The surgery was performed by Marjan Rožanković, M.D., Ph.D., Consultant Neurosurgeon.
In the photo with the nurse Darija Marušić-Piškor.
Sava Bogdanović
Surgical Expansion of the Spinal Canal and Decompression of the Nerves
I would like to thank the entire team of St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, especially to Prof. Dragan Primorac, M.D., Ph.D. and to Vladimir Kovač, M.D., Ph.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon, for the extraordinary attention and care they showed for me as a patient and, most importantly, for enabling me to live a healthy life. Accordingly, I dedicated my book to them because they successfully got me rid of the pain that prevented me from living a normal life. I would recommend St. Catherine to everyone.
The patient underwent surgical expansion of the spinal canal and nerve decompression. The procedure was performed by Vladimir Kovač, M.D., Ph.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon.
Dario Tupek
Croatia
Lumbar Microdiscectomy - Minimally Invasive Operation of the Lumbar Spine
On the recommendation of a friend, I decided to come for an examination in St. Catherine to Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist, because of severe pain in my back and in left leg. Taking into consideration that I wanted a quick and efficient solution, I decided to do a surgery as recommended by Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D. Almost immediately after the surgical procedure, I felt great relief, and there was almost no pain. Also, I must praise the work of physiotherapist Jelena Kelemen, bacc. physioth., who helped me a lot in my progress during physical therapy, and after which I felt as if I had never had a surgery. I would recommend St. Catherine Specialty Hospital to everyone.
The patient underwent Lumbar Microdiscectomy (Minimally Invasive Operation of the Lumbar Spine), and the procedure was performed by Assistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist.
In the photo with Jelena Kelemen, bacc. physioth. during postoperative rehabilitation.
Vesna Pristovnik
Slovenia
Lumbar laminoforaminotomy
I came to St. Catherine Specialty Hospital on the recommendation of a physiotherapist from Slovenia who works with athletes and he said that St. Catherine is the best choice to solve my problems. Considering the long waiting list for surgery in Slovenia, it didn't take me long to decide on surgery in St. Catherine. I can only say that I made the best possible decision. Already two days after the procedure, I feel great. I cannot praise enough dr. Bilić, who is so professional, patient, explains everything and more than once if necessary. The medical team take such good care of me and are available to answer any questions I may have. Many thanks to the entire team of the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital and sincere recommendation to everyone.
The patient underwent lumbar laminoforaminotomy. The procedure was performed by sssistant Professor Vide Bilić, M.D., Ph.D., General Surgery Specialist, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist, Traumatology Subspecialist.
Karla Colnar
Scoliosis surgery
„In 2020 I was diagnosed with scoliosis, a deformation of the spine. At that time, the degree of scoliosis was such that it was necessary to be treated with an orthosis. After some time, it got worse despite orthotic treatment and on the recommendation of my orthopedist, I was referred for further consultation. Through acquaintances, my parents and I heard about Vladimir Kovač, M.D., Ph.D., as the greatest Croatian expert in the treatment of children's scoliosis and spinal deformities. We did the first examination shortly after the first contact with the doctor and he recommended the surgery. Prof. Kovač was honest and objectively explained to us what kind of surgery it was and what the risks were, which particularly impressed us. Shortly after our conversation, we decided to have surgery. Prof. Vladimir Kovač recommended treatment at the St. Catherine Specialty Hospital as one of the top institutions that can perform preoperative preparation and postoperative care, as well as the operation itself, at the highest level. We arrived at the hospital the day before the operation and stayed in the hospital suite, which was spacious and pleasant to stay in. The surgery was already on the second day and almost completely painless, and I was sitting on the second day after the surgery and on the third day I was already walking. After seven days I was discharged for home treatment. The whole experience was beyond all our expectations. All this would not have been possible without the great experience, knowledge and expertise of prof. Vladimir Kovač and his team who performed the operation flawlessly. The service itself, from the first to the last day of hospital stay, was at the highest level. We were especially impressed by the care and concern of the medical team on the 3rd floor of the St. Catherine Specilty Hospital and all the physiotherapists to whom we can only say a big thank you for everything. We would especially like to thank prof. Dr. Vladimir Kovač for his care, approach to the patient, professionalism and expertise. At the same time, all praise to the team of the St. Catherine Specilty Hospital for the extremely professional service, kindness, warm approach and smile they had at every step. We sincerely want to recommend the St. Catherine Specilty Hospital.“
The patient underwent scoliosis surgery. The procedure was performed by Vladimir Kovač, M.D., Ph.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon.
Michal Pluta
Cyprus
Lumbar Laminectomy and Insertion of the Interspinous Implant
Kevin Wayne Priest
United Kingdom
Lumbar Microdiscectomy Surgery
Having recently moved to Slovenia with an existing spine problem, a new friend recommended St. Catherine Specialty Hospital to me. After a quick check, I found it was only 2 hours drive so I contacted the Hospital and was booked in for a consultation within days. As I am originally from the UK, I had no experience of Hospitals in Croatia. So, on the very first visit any concerns I had were gone as every staff member impressed me so much - everyone was very helpful, efficient and professional and that gave me huge confidence in knowing I was dealing with the right people. I booked in for my surgery with Marjan Rožanković, M.D., Ph.D., Consultant Neurosurgeon only 1 week later where I had amazing care and I really can’t thank everyone enough. If any of my friends or family were unfortunate enough to need a hospital, I would have no hesitation recommending St. Catherine Hospital to them.
The patient underwent lumbar microdiscectomy surgery. The surgery was performed by Marjan Rožanković, M.D., Ph.D., Consultant Neurosurgeon.
Kosta Minovski
Croatia
I am very satisfied with the service in St. Catherine Specialty Hospital. The approach of the medical staff, the professionalism and expertise of Marin Lozić, M.D., Ph.D., specialist of anesthesiology and subspecialist of intensive care and Marjan Rožanković, M.D., Ph.D., consultant neurosurgeon, as well as the complete service – everything is at a very high level. That is why I always return to St. Catherine Hospital regarding my health problems. Sincere recommendations to all.
In the photo with Marin Lozić, M.D., Ph.D., specialist of anesthesiology and subspecialist of intensive care
Hasan Mujakić
Bosnia and Herzegovina
I would like to thank the entire team of St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, from doctors to nurses, for their kindness and complete service. I underwent all specialist examinations in St. Catherine and finally spinal surgery.
I will recommend your services to everyone and emphasize the kindness of your team and the expertise of medical work.
The patient underwent lumbar microdiscectomy and the procedure was performed by Krešimir Saša Đurić, M.D., Ph. D., specialist in Neurosurgery.
Satoshi Ishii
MMA fighter and Olympic winner in judo
I am very satisfied with the overall service at St. Catharine Hospital. Everyone is very kind and the expertise of the doctors is great.
Goran Janošević
Croatia
My problems started in the lumbar spine. I was examined by a neurosurgeon and a physiatrist. There was no talk of surgery. I went into physical therapy. The therapies were well thought out. All compliments to physiotherapist Nina. The whole process is very professional and motivating. The concept consists of a series of exercises. The result is excellent and the pains are reduced. I recommend this wonderful hospital to anyone with the same and similar disabilities.
Božica Dolenac
Croatia
I entrusted my long-standing spine pain problem to the vertebrology team of St. Catherine Hospital. I was rehabilitated after an individual intervention procedure.
My husband successfully treated his knee pain at the Orthopedic Center and underwent a detailed diagnostic treatment, and now our quality of life has improved significantly after targeted and personalized treatment.
I look forward to finding many health conditions in one place quickly and accurately in the hands of the best professionals. This is a hospital whose staff has proven that their patients come first. Always ready to help and even if the have to get out of their way, they have an understanding of the patient's issues and many issues that plague us when we see a doctor. So far, we have entrusted every health problem to them and will continue to recommend them with full confidence to everyone, from the bottom of our hearts.
Barbel Haussmann
Germany
For almost seven years I’ve had a huge problems with my spine, which kept me from performing my everyday chores or just live my regular life; I couldn’t sit for a long period of time, drive a car, work at a computer, and when I would want to get up I would be in a lot of unbearable pain. That lead me to seek solution in renowned German and American hospitals, and after almost seven years, my frustration became even greater because I experienced no progress, and I could not live normally and deal with everyday life.
A friend of mine recommended St. Catherine Specialty Hospital to me, and I did my due diligence and found out that the hospital was a center of excellence and had amazing medical experts for spinal issues, which lead me to finally come to Croatia and begin with my treatment.
St. Catherine Specialty Hospital team, led by Dr. Darko Perović, after initial investigations, opted for the radio frequency ablation procedure, which is a treatment of nerve branches on the joints of my spine. The procedure lasted only 2 hours, under local anesthesia, and I left the hospital the same day.
Right after coming back from the hospital, I felt much better. All of a sudden, all the daily activities seemed effortless and I didn’t feel any pain and struggle that I felt before. Truly, after a very long time, I felt like I was born again. If you can imagine the feeling of not being able to sit, or water the flowers in your garden, or drive a car, etc. Now, I can do all these things thanks to St. Catherine’s team.
I would once again like to thank St. Catherine Specialty Hospital team from the bottom of my heart for being so amazing and professional and for everything they have done for me. I will always gladly share my experience and recommend St. Catherine hospital to my friends in Germany and other countries.
Thank you, St. Catherine!
Mathieu Carle
KHL Medveščak player
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.
Ivo Karlović
Tennis player
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.
Ranko Vučinić
KHL Medveščak spokesperson
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.
