Dr Raúl Barco Laakso

Shoulder and Elbow

Dr Raúl Barco Laakso

Specialist in
  • Fractures of the scapula, shoulder and elbow.
  • Tendon transfers of the shoulder and elbow.
  • Endoscopic surgery on the ulnar nerve and the brachial plexus.
«In shoulder and elbow surgery, technique is key. But what really makes the difference happens in the consultation: listening to each patient’s story, addressing their concerns and supporting them on their journey towards a recovery free from limitations or fears.»
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Professional profile

A specialist in Traumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery with a proven track record in shoulder and elbow surgery, combining clinical practice, teaching and research at leading university hospitals. Her clinical practice focuses on the treatment of complex conditions, both traumatic and degenerative, with a particular interest in advanced arthroplasty and reconstructive surgery.

Throughout her career, she has maintained an active academic profile, contributing to the training of new specialists and participating in international scientific projects. Her clinical approach is underpinned by technical expertise, critical analysis of the evidence and the application of surgical solutions tailored to each patient.

Education

He has a solid medical background, complemented by postgraduate studies and international accreditations in the field of orthopaedic surgery.

2012 | Master’s in Clinical Management in Specialised Care. IESBS. Madrid.
2010 | Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (cum laude). Autonomous University of Madrid.
2004 | Fellow of the European Board of Orthopaedic Trauma (FEBOT).
1998 – 2004 | Specialisation in Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology. La Paz University Hospital. Madrid.
1990 – 1996 | Bachelor’s Degree in Medicine and Surgery. Autonomous University of Madrid.

Professional experience

He has carried out his professional career in hospital, university and private settings, with a consistent focus on specialist shoulder and elbow surgery.

2018–2026 | Private medical practice. Madrid.
2007 – 2018 | Consultant at the Shoulder and Elbow Unit, Madrid Norte Sanchinarro University Hospital.
2005 – Present | Consultant at the Shoulder and Elbow Unit, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid.
1996 – Present | Clinical practice in Traumatology and Orthopaedic Surgery. La Paz University Hospital, Madrid.

Scientific publications

He is the author and co-author of recent publications in high-impact international journals on shoulder and elbow surgery.

2024 | Kim HM, Morrey ME, Steinmann S, et al. Open and Arthroscopic Elbow Contracture Release: Tips and Pearls. Instructional Course Lectures. 73:625–637. PMID: 38090929
2024 | de Klerk HH, Verweij LPE, Doornberg JN, et al. Factors associated with the choice of treatment for coronoid fractures. The Bone & Joint Journal. 106-B(10):1150–1157. PMID: 39348906
2024 | Ameztoy Gallego J, Diez Sánchez B, Vaquero-Picado A, et al. Failed radial head arthroplasty treated by removal of the implant. The Bone & Joint Journal. 106-B(11):1327–1332. PMID: 39481443
2024 | Arenas-Miquelez A, Barco R, Cabo Cabo FJ, et al. Management of bone loss in anterior shoulder instability. The Bone & Joint Journal. 106-B(10):1100–1110. PMID: 39348897
2023 | Garcia-Maya B, Morais S, Diez-Sebastian J, et al. Drain use can be avoided in reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Injury. 54(Suppl 7):111041. PMID: 38225162

Areas of special focus

His clinical practice focuses in particular on the following conditions:

  • Fractures of the scapula, shoulder and elbow.
  • Tendon transfers of the shoulder and elbow.
  • Navigation-assisted arthroplasty, with or without metal or bone grafts.
  • Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder and elbow.
  • Surgery for sequelae of shoulder and elbow conditions.

Techniques and procedures

The techniques and procedures he routinely uses include:

  • Endoscopic surgery on the ulnar nerve and the brachial plexus.
  • Glenoid bone augmentation for shoulder instability.
  • Surgery for elbow instability.
  • Customised shoulder prostheses.
  • Surgery for traumatic shoulder and elbow injuries.

Accreditations and memberships

He is actively involved in national and international scientific societies related to his specialism.

  • American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES).
  • Spanish Society for Shoulder and Elbow Surgery (SECHC).
  • European Society for Shoulder and Elbow Surgery (SECEC-ESSE).

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