KPJ Penang opens new centre for orthopaedic and rheumatology care

KPJ Penang Specialist Hospital has launched an Orthopaedic and Rheumatology Centre of Excellence, bringing together specialist services for patients with bone, joint and musculoskeletal conditions.

The new centre combines orthopaedic surgery, rheumatology consultations, diagnostic services and rehabilitation facilities in one location, allowing patients to receive treatment and recovery support through a coordinated care approach.

Among the services available are joint replacement procedures, spine surgery, sports-related injuries, foot and ankle surgery, hand and microsurgery, paediatric orthopaedics, trauma care, rheumatology and pain management.

The centre will also provide rehabilitation programmes for patients recovering from spinal procedures, sports injuries and other orthopaedic conditions. 

KPJ Healthcare said the facility is equipped with technologies, including AI-assisted robotic joint replacement systems, computer-assisted navigation and minimally invasive surgical tools.

The launch marks the third Centre of Excellence established under the KPJ Health System, following the Heart & Lung Centre of Excellence at Johor Specialist Hospital and the Neuroscience & Stroke Centre of Excellence at Damansara Specialist Hospital 2.

KPJHS Governing Council chairman Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim said the centres were intended to grow beyond clinical facilities by developing stronger research, education and training capabilities.

“The ambition is for these centres to continue developing their clinical, academic and research capabilities until they are elevated into institutes,” he said.

He said such institutes could serve as platforms for research, specialist training and collaboration with healthcare stakeholders.

KPJ Healthcare has set a target of establishing 15 Centres of Excellence nationwide by 2030 as part of its KPJ Health System expansion.

KPJ Penang Specialist Hospital, a 270-bed tertiary hospital, currently has more than 50 resident consultants covering over 20 medical specialties.

The hospital said the new centre would support greater collaboration among specialists while improving access to orthopaedic and rheumatology services for patients in the northern region. - August 4, 2026