Elienay Sabina, an 18-year-old from Cuba, spent five long years relying on crutches and, at her worst, was confined to a wheelchair. She suffered from slipped capital femoral epiphysis, a severe hip condition primarily affecting teenagers.
Despite undergoing multiple hip surgeries in Cuba, none resolved her condition. The doctors on the island either avoided or were unable to perform the procedure she desperately needed.
The breakthrough came in Miami, where a specialized team restored her mobility using a groundbreaking technology previously unseen in South Florida.
"I encountered many doctors who told me it couldn’t be done. They said the surgery existed, but they were afraid to perform it," Elienay told Telemundo 51, which featured her story in a special segment called "Your Health."
Elienay received treatment at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami. There, the Orthopedic, Sports Medicine, and Spine Institute team conducted what the hospital described as the region's first pediatric total hip replacement using mixed reality-guided surgery.
The procedure was led by Dr. Thomas J. Utset-Ward, a pediatric orthopedic oncologist recognized as one of only ten specialists in the United States who exclusively handle bone tumors and complex orthopedic conditions in children and adolescents.
This mixed reality technology merges the real world with 3D digital images during surgery. It allows the surgeon to view three-dimensional anatomical models, measure, and precisely place the implant, and conduct predictive analyses. This significantly reduces operating time and enhances long-term outcomes.
Elienay’s surgery lasted between 10 to 11 hours, with the main challenge being her legs’ differing lengths. Yet, it was a success: just a week later, she bid farewell to her crutch.
The changes in her life were immediate and profound. She can now walk unaided, ride a bicycle, and even drive a car—activities that had been impossible for years.
Elienay’s story is not unique. It is part of a documented trend where Cuban families seek medical treatments in Miami that the island’s healthcare system cannot provide, often due to a lack of supplies, advanced technology, or specialized professionals.
Nicklaus Children's Hospital has emerged as a key destination for Cuban patients with complex conditions. Notable cases include a teenager who regained nearly full vision through an innovative treatment in Miami and a young girl who walked again with prosthetics after losing her legs in a suspected case of medical negligence in Cuba.
Understanding Advanced Medical Treatments for Cuban Patients in Miami
What condition did Elienay Sabina suffer from?
Elienay Sabina suffered from slipped capital femoral epiphysis, a severe hip condition that typically affects teenagers.
Where did Elienay receive her life-changing surgery?
Elienay underwent her transformative surgery at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami.
What technology was used in Elienay’s surgery?
The surgery utilized mixed reality technology, combining real-world and 3D digital images to enhance precision and outcomes.
Why do Cuban families seek medical treatment in Miami?
Cuban families often look to Miami for advanced medical treatments unavailable on the island due to shortages of supplies, lack of advanced technology, or absence of specialized professionals.