Selkirk Regional Health Centre has completed more than 800 joint replacement surgeries since launching its orthopedic program just over a year ago, improving access to care closer to home for Manitobans. Photo courtesy Interlake-Eastern RHA on Facebook.Supplied photo

More than 800 joint replacement surgeries have been completed at Selkirk Regional Health Centre since the launch of its orthopedic program just over a year ago.

The Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority says the hospital completed its targeted 800th joint replacement surgery on March 26, 2026. The program launched in March 2025 after planning began the previous November, following a provincial investment in new staff and an expanded operating room.

An IERHA spokesperson said the program has helped improve access to surgical care for Manitobans, reduce wait times and allow more patients to receive care closer to home rather than travelling farther for joint replacement surgery.

Health officials say the surgeries have also helped patients reduce pain, regain mobility and return to daily activities.

“This milestone highlights the dedication and hard work of our surgical teams including the medical device reprocessing team, pre and post-anesthetic team, operating room staff, physiotherapy, physicians, and support staff,” said Laetitia Martyniw, operating room and regional endoscopy manager at the hospital.

“Their commitment has been instrumental in building a high-quality orthopedic program that is already making a meaningful difference for patients and families in our region.”

IERHA says the program was developed and launched within a three-month timeframe, reflecting collaboration between interdisciplinary teams across the health region.

The Manitoba government also committed funding for additional hip and knee surgeries in its 2026 budget.

IERHA says its care teams will continue building on the program’s early success, with a focus on delivering safe, efficient and patient-centred care as demand continues to grow.

By Steven Sukkau, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Original Published on May 10, 2026 at 17:35

This item reprinted with permission from    The Sun    Winnipeg, Manitoba
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