By
I am Cem Ilker Bölükbaş and I currently divide my time between Türkiye and Ukraine, where I am working on a major prosthetic and orthotic project for war veterans. I studied Prosthetics and Orthotics at Hacettepe University in Türkiye and graduated in 1995. I am currently working with Art Medikal, a subsidiary of Onur Group, to establish a modern prosthetic and orthotic production and rehabilitation center in Lviv, Ukraine.
What do you claim is your specialty – your O\&P passion?
My specialty is advanced prosthetic solutions for amputees, especially microprocessor-controlled prostheses and bionic hands. My passion is restoring mobility and independence to veterans and trauma patients — something I have done for decades in Türkiye and am now continuing in Ukraine.
What do you like most about practicing O&P?
What I love most is seeing the moment when a patient takes their first confident step or uses their hand again. It’s not just about giving them a device; it’s about giving them back a part of their life.
What frustrates you about O&P?
It can be frustrating when patients cannot access the technology they need due to financial or systemic barriers. I believe everyone deserves the best possible solution, regardless of their circumstances.
What is your greatest patient story in O&P?
One of my most memorable moments was with a war veteran who had lost both legs. After fitting him with microprocessor-controlled prostheses, he walked into his home unaided for the first time in years. The smile on his face, and the tears in his family’s eyes, is something I will never forget.
How do you build rapport with patients in your care?
I believe in listening first. Every patient has a unique story, and when they feel heard and understood, trust naturally follows. I spend time explaining the process, involving them in decisions, and always showing genuine care for their journey.
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