Priora offers top-level treatment with modern technology and a multidisciplinary approach. “I wanted to provide patients with the best possible conditions and individualized treatment,” says Dr. Ivan Karlak, Head of Orthopedics at IMC Priora
At the International Medical Center Priora in Čepin, the Orthopedics Department, dedicated to bone and joint health, has recently opened its doors.
What is orthopedics and what services does it provide?
Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that deals with diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system – bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. At the Orthopedics Department, the focus is on timely diagnostics, prevention, and treatment of orthopedic conditions, using modern methods that enable safer procedures and faster patient recovery. Special importance is placed on an individualized approach to each patient. Medical care encompasses the entire process – from initial examinations and consultations, through detailed evaluations and therapeutic recommendations, to surgical intervention and rehabilitation.
Expertise and experience of Dr. Ivan Karlak
The department is led by Dr. Ivan Karlak, a specialist in orthopedics and subspecialist in traumatology, with long-standing experience in endoprosthetics, traumatology, and minimally invasive procedures. He is one of the leading experts in joint replacement surgery of the hip, knee, and shoulder, as well as in the treatment of long bone fractures and complex pelvic injuries. IMC Priora represents a new chapter in his career.
Priora offers top-level treatment with modern technology and a multidisciplinary approach. I wanted to provide patients with the best possible conditions and individualized treatment,” answers Dr. Ivan Karlak when asked what motivated him to continue his professional path at Priora.
He graduated from the University of Zagreb School of Medicine, specialized in orthopedics and subspecialized in traumatology, while also gaining additional knowledge and experience at clinics abroad, which, he points out, enabled him to apply the most advanced methods in Croatia.
“I mostly focus on reconstructive orthopedics, especially hip, knee, and shoulder replacement, as well as sports injuries and minimally invasive procedures,” adds the 49-year-old specialist
Most common orthopedic diagnoses
What are the most common orthopedic diagnoses patients come with, and how demanding are they to treat?
“The most common are degenerative joint diseases, ligament and meniscus injuries, and painful shoulder conditions. The complexity of treatment depends on the stage of the disease, but with timely diagnosis and the right procedure, the results are excellent,” explains Dr. Karlak.
As the biggest challenges in orthopedics today, he highlights the increasing number of patients due to an aging population, the need for faster rehabilitation, and the integration of new technologies into everyday practice.
How present is modern technology, such as robotics, in orthopedics, and how does Croatia compare with Europe?
“Robotics and navigation systems are increasingly present, primarily in joint replacement surgery. Croatia is following European trends, although the application is still in its early phase. IMC Priora is certainly an institution that will follow global technological trends, all to provide above-standard care for our patients,” says Dr. Ivan Karlak.
Joint replacement with endoprostheses is one of the most common and effective methods in modern orthopedics. This procedure significantly reduces or eliminates pain, restores mobility, and allows patients to live an active and quality life once again. By utilizing advanced surgical techniques and high-quality implants, the durability of the prosthesis, joint stability, and a faster return to daily activities are ensured.
Dr. Karlak has built his expertise in hip, knee, and shoulder replacement surgery. For these procedures to be successful, he emphasizes the importance of precise preparation, surgical skill, and, above all, experience. The goal of treatment is not just a successful operation, but a long-term solution that restores the patient’s freedom of movement and independence in everyday life.
Orthopedic patients – from young to elderly
When we discuss orthopedic patients, many might first associate them with older individuals. However, in practice, this is not always the case.
“Young people make up a significant share of patients – most often due to sports injuries, ligament and cartilage damage, as well as overuse problems caused by modern lifestyles,” explains our interlocutor.
At IMC Priora, our orthopedic focus is on restoring mobility and enabling pain-free movement. The list of orthopedic services includes specialist examinations, follow-up consultations and second opinions, hip, knee, and shoulder replacement surgery, treatment of long bone and intra-articular fractures, conservative treatment and non-surgical methods (ACP, injections), as well as counseling on rehabilitation and injury prevention.
“We offer patients a wide range of services – from conservative treatment of painful conditions and minor arthroscopic procedures, to major joint replacement surgeries and complex reconstructive operations. Examinations and treatments are performed using advanced surgical techniques and minimally invasive procedures, which enable faster recovery and long-term results,” concludes Dr. Ivan Karlak.
