Dr. C. Rodrigo Álvarez Cambra, Eminent Cuban Orthopedic Surgeon, Passes Away

March 3, 2023

On the afternoon of Thursday, March 2, 2023, Dr. C. Rodrigo Álvarez Cambra, an eminent Cuban orthopedic surgeon, passed away in Havana at the age of 88.

Álvarez Cambra was born on December 22, 1934 in Candelaria, Pinar del Río. During his childhood years, it is said that his first inclination was toward construction engineering, but an unfortunate family event influenced his decision: "My father's illness is what made me change my mind; it was a shock to see him die without being able to do anything." This made him think he should become a doctor.

His youth coincided with the years when Batista seized power as a result of his coup d'état in 1952. During times when students were called to action, he did not remain on the sidelines either: he participated in student demonstrations and protests.

When the University was closed in 1956, he managed to find work at Calixto García Hospital and only after the Revolutionary Triumph did he resume his studies, graduating in 1964, thus beginning a brilliant career in the field of orthopedics and traumatology.

Dr. Álvarez Cambra was sent to France by Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz to pursue postgraduate studies. Upon his return, he assumed the directorship of the "Frank País" Orthopedic Hospital, transforming it into the "Frank País" International Orthopedic Scientific Complex. From that moment on, he dedicated his life to the development of orthopedics and traumatology, research, and training of new generations in the specialty in Cuba and around the world.

Likewise, Cuban sports during the revolutionary period cannot be written without his name. He was the saving hand for the careers of hundreds of injured athletes, among them several Olympic champions.

Dr. Álvarez Cambra was distinguished with the title of Hero of Labor of the Republic of Cuba and held throughout his long and fruitful professional and scientific life, multiple decorations, distinctions, medals, and recognitions.

Among his academic achievements, he held the title of Specialist of the Second Degree in Orthopedics and Traumatology, Doctor in Medical Sciences, Researcher of Merit, Doctor Honoris Causa from several universities in Latin America, and Honorary and Emeritus Professor of prestigious universities around the world.

He was also president of the Cuban Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology for several decades, honorary member and active member of multiple international scientific societies.

The professor also fulfilled important internationalist missions and other highly sensitive missions in the field of Health.

With his passing, Cuban public health loses one of its most recognized professionals.