In a landmark procedure that marks a new chapter in medical excellence, Nueva Ecija Medical Center (NEMC) successfully conducted its first-ever bariatric (metabolic) surgery  a breakthrough that strengthens the hospital’s commitment to providing advanced, comprehensive, and compassionate care to its patients.

Why Bariatric Surgery Matters

Obesity and its related health conditions including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases continue to pose major challenges in the Philippines. While lifestyle modification and medical management remain first-line treatments, bariatric surgery offers a transformative solution for patients struggling to achieve sustained weight loss and disease control.

This milestone at NEMC signifies more than just a medical procedure; it represents a commitment to fighting obesity and improving quality of life for patients in Nueva Ecija and neighboring provinces. Through minimally invasive techniques, bariatric surgery provides lasting benefits and helps reduce the burden of chronic diseases.

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The Multidisciplinary Team Behind the Success

Behind this milestone is a team of exceptional professionals whose dedication, precision, and unity made this complex procedure possible.

Surgical Team:

• Dr. Marlon Jay Gonzales - Lead Surgeon
• Dr. Paolo Porciuncula - Lead Surgeon
• Dr. Jeero Bonnifer Cueto - Surgeon

Anesthesia and Nursing Support:

• Dr. Sonny Jimenez – Anesthesiologist
• Jose Resuello, Jr., RN – Laparoscopy Nurse
• Almary Joyce Mina, RN – Circulating Nurse
• Glenn Moore Gavino – Orderly

Medical Specialists:

• Dr. Lia Mae Casallo – Diabetologist
• Dr. Hazel Tolentino – Pulmonologist
• Dr. Lea Arceli Porciuncula – Cardiologist
• Dr. Karine Camille Joson – Psychiatrist

Together, this multidisciplinary team exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and the shared goal of delivering safe, effective, and holistic patient care addressing not just the surgical aspect but the overall well-being of each patient.

Preparation and Execution

The launch of NEMC’s bariatric program required weeks of preparation, including:

1. Preoperative Planning and Patient Selection
   Comprehensive screening and optimization to ensure surgical safety and favorable outcomes.
2. Facility Readiness and Equipment Calibration
   Preparation of laparoscopic systems, insufflators, staplers, and safety protocols tailored for bariatric procedures.
3. Team Briefing and Simulation
   Dry runs and procedural rehearsals ensured smooth coordination and adherence to international surgical safety standards.
4. Postoperative Care
   Close monitoring, nutritional guidance, and patient education to promote recovery and long-term lifestyle changes.

The Day of Surgery

On the scheduled day, the team assembled early for a detailed surgical safety briefing and role assignment. Under general anesthesia, the surgeons performed the bariatric procedure using laparoscopic techniques ensuring precision with minimal invasiveness. Throughout the operation, the anesthesia and nursing teams provided seamless coordination, continuous monitoring, and optimal support.

Following the successful completion of the surgery, the patient was transferred to recovery in stable condition, marking the first-ever bariatric case in NEMC history.

Significance and Impact

This achievement marks a significant advancement in NEMC’s service capability:

• Improved Access to Advanced Care – Patients from Nueva Ecija and nearby areas can now avail of specialized bariatric surgery locally.
• Institutional Growth – The milestone strengthens NEMC’s standing as a leading tertiary hospital offering comprehensive surgical services.
• Community Health Advancement – By addressing obesity and metabolic diseases, NEMC contributes to better long-term health outcomes for its population.

Acknowledgment

Nueva Ecija Medical Center proudly honors the dedicated team whose skill and collaboration made this historic milestone possible:

SURGICAL TEAM

• Dr. Paolo Porciuncula, Lead Surgeon
• Dr. Marlon Jay Gonzales, Lead Surgeon
• Dr. Jeero Bonnifer Cueto, Surgeon

ANESTHESIA & NURSING TEAM

• Dr. Sonny Jimenez, Anesthesiologist
• Jose Resuello, Jr., RN, Laparoscopy Nurse
• Almary Joyce Mina, RN, Circulating Nurse
• Glenn Moore Gavino, Orderly

MULTIDISCIPLINARY SUPPORT

• Dr. Lia Mae Casallo, Diabetologist
• Dr. Hazel Tolentino, Pulmonologist
• Dr. Lea Arceli Porciuncula, Cardiologist
• Dr. Karine Camille Joson, Psychiatrist

Their combined expertise, compassion, and teamwork embody the essence of NEMC’s commitment to excellence and innovation.