Dr. Craig Della Valle and MOR nurse clinician Kim Chandler traveled to Lima, Peru this October to assist Operation Walk Maryland in their latest humanitarian mission. Operation Walk works to provide total hip and knee arthroplasties for patients who would not normally have access to advanced orthopaedic care.

Over the course of three days, the surgical team performed 48 joint replacements. The team also educated local physicians on the latest surgical techniques. "It was both a humbling and rewarding experience," said Chandler.

Advanced joint replacement procedures, routinely performed in the United States, are typically not available to residents of developing countries. Operation Walk is a private, not-for-profit, volunteer medical services organization which provides free surgical treatment for patients in developing countries that have no access to life-improving care for arthritis or other debilitating bone and joint conditions.

Operation Walk also educates in-country orthopaedic surgeons, nurses, physical therapists, and other health care professionals on the most advanced treatments and surgical techniques for diseases of the hip and knee joints. This is done in conjunction with surgeries to help create a lasting contribution to patient care in developing countries.

If you would like to make a donation to Operation Walk please visit www.operationwalkmd.com/donationform.pdf or contact Operation Walk Maryland directly at 410-229-9800. 100% of all donations will directly assist with providing patient care including the purchase of dressings, crutches, and the surgical implants.