CM General Hospital
Associated Clinics · 1
Medical Team & Professional Expertise
Elite Orthopedic Physician Team
CM Hospital concentrates Korea's most accomplished orthopedic specialists, with 15 orthopedic surgeons permanently stationed at the facility. This physician team represents three generations of orthopedic medical excellence, a legacy built upon rigorous training and clinical achievement.
Leadership & Founder Vision:
The hospital was founded and continues to be led by Dr. Lee Sang-Hun, Korea's first IOC-certified sports medicine physician and the third-generation hospital director. Dr. Lee's pioneering role in establishing sports medicine specialization in Korea and his deep expertise in athletic injury management have shaped the hospital's institutional culture emphasizing precision, natural recovery, and long-term functional restoration.
Specialized Physician Groups:
- Shoulder Specialists: 5 dedicated shoulder joint surgeons
- Knee Specialists: 4 dedicated knee joint surgeons
- Spine Specialists: Multiple spine surgery and neurology physicians
- General Orthopedic Specialists: Additional orthopedic surgeons covering diverse joint pathology
- Sports Medicine Team: Certified sports medicine physicians providing real-time consultation system
Supporting Professional Team
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Specialists:
Beyond orthopedic surgeons, CM Hospital maintains a team of certified physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists who work in integrated consultation systems with orthopedic physicians. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive treatment from surgical intervention through complete functional recovery.
Institutional Experience & Track Record
20,000+ Elite Athletes Treated:
CM Hospital's role as the official medical support facility for Korean National Athletic Training Center has enabled treatment of over 20,000 elite national representative athletes. This extensive experience with high-level athletic injuries, complex musculoskeletal pathology, and accelerated rehabilitation protocols distinguishes CM Hospital's clinical expertise.
Primary Medical Specialties & Signature Services
I. UPPER EXTREMITY JOINT CENTER - Flagship Service
Shoulder Joint Specialty
CM Hospital operates the nation's largest upper extremity joint center, with shoulder joint treatment as the hospital's flagship specialty. The hospital maintains five dedicated shoulder joint surgeons providing comprehensive shoulder care.
Signature Achievement - Salvage Surgery Reputation:
CM Hospital has earned widespread recognition as the ultimate destination for patients experiencing failed shoulder surgery at other institutions. Many patients facing disappointing outcomes from shoulder procedures at other facilities are referred to CM Hospital as the final surgical salvage opportunity. The hospital's reputation stems from its unique approach combining technically superior surgical revision, anatomically precise reconstruction, and distinctive post-operative rehabilitation protocols.
Rapid Recovery Protocol:
A distinguishing feature of CM Hospital's shoulder treatment is the accelerated functional recovery achieved post-operatively. Patients typically regain shoulder mobility and functional capacity within 3-4 months without requiring specialized additional rehabilitation therapy. This rapid recovery trajectory significantly exceeds typical post-operative recovery timelines at comparable institutions.
Comprehensive Shoulder Disorder Treatment:
The shoulder surgery program encompasses the full spectrum of shoulder joint pathology:
- Rotator Cuff Disease Management: Complete rotator cuff tear diagnosis, repair and reconstruction using arthroscopic micro-invasive techniques
- Shoulder Instability Treatment: Anterior, posterior, and multi-directional instability repair with anatomic reconstruction
- Frozen Shoulder Therapy: Both surgical and conservative management of adhesive capsulitis
- Degenerative Shoulder Disease: Osteoarthritis management including conservative treatment, biological therapies, and surgical intervention
- Labral Pathology Repair: SLAP lesions, anterior-posterior labral tears, labral anchoring procedures
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Subacromial decompression, acromioplasty, and anatomic correction
- Post-traumatic Shoulder Reconstruction: Fracture sequelae, humeral head displacement, complex fracture-dislocation management
- Failed Prior Shoulder Surgery Revision: Salvage procedures for inadequate prior repairs, hardware complications, and revision reconstruction
Arthroscopic Surgical Excellence:
The shoulder center utilizes advanced arthroscopic (minimally invasive) techniques enabling:
- Complete intra-articular visualization
- Precise soft tissue repair and reconstruction
- Minimal tissue trauma and rapid healing
- Accelerated post-operative mobility
- Reduced post-operative pain and complications
Elbow Joint Treatment
Beyond shoulder specialization, CM Hospital provides comprehensive elbow joint care:
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Conservative and surgical management
- Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Precise decompression and repair
- Ulnar Nerve Compression: Decompression and stabilization procedures
- Elbow Instability: Ligamentous repair and reconstruction
- Post-traumatic Elbow Arthritis: Conservative management and surgical intervention
Wrist & Hand Joint Specialty
The hand and wrist program addresses complex upper extremity conditions:
- Wrist Tendinitis & Tenosynovitis: Precise decompression and inflammation management
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Endoscopic and open decompression techniques
- Wrist Ligament Injury: Scapholunate and lunotriquetral repair
- Hand Fractures & Dislocations: Anatomically precise reduction and stabilization
- Arthritis Management: Conservative and surgical treatment approaches
II. LOWER EXTREMITY JOINT CENTER
Knee Joint Specialty
CM Hospital operates a comprehensive knee joint center directed by four dedicated knee specialists. The program offers expert diagnosis, surgical intervention, and rehabilitation for the full spectrum of knee pathology.
Knee Arthroscopic Surgery:
The knee program utilizes advanced arthroscopic techniques for minimally invasive treatment:
- Meniscal Pathology Management: Meniscal tear classification, partial meniscectomy, and meniscal repair
- Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction using anatomically optimized graft placement
- Collateral Ligament Repair: Medial and lateral collateral ligament injuries and reconstructions
- Patellar Tracking Disorders: Realignment procedures addressing biomechanical dysfunction
- Chondral Defect Management: Cartilage repair and resurfacing techniques
Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment:
- Conservative Management: Anti-inflammatory medications, injections, physical therapy
- Stem Cell Regenerative Therapy: Biological regeneration of cartilage through mesenchymal stem cell implantation
- Hyaluronic Acid Injection: Joint lubrication and anti-inflammatory therapy
- Surgical Intervention: Tibial and femoral osteotomy for alignment correction, artificial knee joint replacement
Total Knee Replacement (Arthroplasty):
For advanced knee osteoarthritis unresponsive to conservative care, CM Hospital performs total knee replacement with emphasis on:
- Anatomically optimized component alignment
- Maximized functional range of motion
- Long-term implant durability
- Accelerated post-operative rehabilitation
Athletic Knee Injury Rehabilitation:
Specialized protocols for competitive and recreational athletes:
- Meniscal injury management in young athletes prioritizing tissue preservation
- ACL reconstruction with accelerated return-to-sport protocols
- Proprioceptive retraining and neuromuscular control restoration
- Sport-specific functional training
Ankle & Foot Management Center
CM Hospital operates a specialized ankle and foot management center addressing lower extremity biomechanical and structural disorders:
- Ankle Sprain & Instability: Acute ankle sprain diagnosis, conservative rehabilitation, and chronic instability reconstruction
- Ankle Arthritis: Conservative management and surgical intervention
- Foot Biomechanical Disorders: Flatfoot, high arch (pes cavus), and alignment abnormalities
- Foot Pathology Management: Plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, metatarsalgia, Morton's neuroma
- Diabetic Foot Care: Specialized wound management and preventive foot care
- Post-traumatic Foot Reconstruction: Complex fracture and fracture-dislocation management
III. SPINE SPECIALTY CENTER
Comprehensive Spine Care
CM Hospital's spine center provides expert diagnosis and treatment of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine pathology using both conservative and surgical approaches.
Conservative Spine Treatment:
- Medication management
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Epidural steroid injections
- Facet joint injections
- Selective nerve root blocks
Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Spine Surgery:
The hospital specializes in advanced endoscopic spine surgical techniques, representing a significant advance over traditional open spine surgery:
- Minimally Invasive Approach: Small incisions with minimal muscle and tissue disruption
- Direct Endoscopic Visualization: Clear visualization of spinal pathology
- Precise Decompression: Targeted removal of disc herniation and osteophyte material
- Rapid Recovery: Accelerated healing and return to function compared to traditional open surgery
- Reduced Complications: Lower infection risk and reduced post-operative pain
Spine Disorder Treatment:
- Cervical Disc Herniation: Endoscopic discectomy, cervical laminectomy, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
- Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: Decompression addressing cord compression and functional improvement
- Cervical Stenosis: Laminectomy and posterior decompression
- Lumbar Disc Herniation: Endoscopic lumbar discectomy, laminectomy, and fusion
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Decompressive procedures addressing central and lateral stenosis
- Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: Reduction and fusion procedures for vertebral displacement
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Progressive degenerative disc management from conservative care to fusion
- Spondylosis: Osteophyte management and decompression
- Spinal Deformity: Scoliosis and kyphosis correction with instrumented fusion
- Spinal Trauma: Acute fracture diagnosis, stabilization, and surgical management
IV. REGENERATIVE MEDICINE & STEM CELL THERAPY
Stem Cell Therapy for Joint Disorders
CM Hospital offers innovative stem cell regenerative therapies for degenerative joint disease and chronic joint arthritis. These biologic interventions aim to stimulate cartilage regeneration, reduce inflammation, and delay or prevent the progression of joint degeneration.
Mechanism of Action:
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow or adipose tissue are processed and implanted into affected joints. These cells possess regenerative properties that promote:
- Cartilage matrix restoration
- Anti-inflammatory mediator secretion
- Joint environment stabilization
- Degeneration arrest and reversal
Clinical Applications:
- Knee Osteoarthritis: Stem cell implantation for early to moderate degenerative disease, offering biological repair alternative to traditional joint replacement
- Shoulder Degenerative Disease: Joint surface regeneration for patients with early arthritic changes
- Ankle Joint Arthritis: Biological intervention for ankle osteoarthritis preservation
- Other Joint Disorders: Comprehensive regenerative approaches to various joint pathology
Advantages of Stem Cell Therapy:
- Non-surgical or minimally invasive approach
- Preservation of native joint anatomy
- Potential disease modification rather than symptomatic treatment
- Delayed need for joint replacement
- Reduced post-operative recovery compared to major joint surgery
V. PHYSICAL THERAPY & REHABILITATION CENTER
Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services
CM Hospital operates an integrated rehabilitation center with certified physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists collaborating directly with orthopedic surgeons. This integrated approach ensures seamless transition from surgical intervention to complete functional recovery.
Rehabilitation Treatment Modalities:
Therapeutic Exercise Programs:
- Progressive resistance training for muscle strengthening
- Flexibility and stretching protocols
- Range of motion restoration exercises
- Proprioceptive training and neuromuscular control
- Functional movement pattern retraining
- Balance and stability exercises
Manual Physical Therapy:
- Joint mobilization techniques
- Soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release
- Manual stretching and range of motion restoration
- Therapeutic massage techniques
- Scar tissue management
Modality-Based Therapy:
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Interferential current therapy
- Heat and cold therapy application
Sport-Specific Rehabilitation:
- Athletic movement pattern training
- Return-to-sport protocols
- Sport-specific functional conditioning
- Injury prevention training programs
- Performance optimization techniques
Patient Education:
- Proper body mechanics training
- Home exercise program instruction
- Ergonomic assessment and modification
- Activity modification strategies
- Long-term self-management instruction
Rapid Recovery Rehabilitation Protocols
CM Hospital's distinctive rapid recovery approach for shoulder surgery patients demonstrates the effectiveness of well-designed rehabilitation protocols. The 3-4 month shoulder functional recovery achieved at CM Hospital reflects:
- Optimal surgical technique minimizing tissue trauma
- Precisely structured post-operative rehabilitation progression
- Experienced physical therapists skilled in post-operative management
- Patient compliance with evidence-based rehabilitation
VI. HEALTH SCREENING CENTER
Musculoskeletal-Focused Health Screening
CM Hospital operates an integrated health screening center offering comprehensive health assessment with specialized emphasis on musculoskeletal system evaluation and orthopedic disease prevention.
Screening Program Components:
- Orthopedic Assessment: Comprehensive joint and spine functional evaluation
- Postural & Gait Analysis: Biomechanical assessment identifying movement dysfunction
- Bone Density Measurement (DEXA): Osteoporosis screening and vertebral bone quality assessment
- Athletic Performance Assessment: Sport-specific functional testing for athletes
- Cardiovascular Screening: Heart health and vascular disease prevention
- Metabolic Health Evaluation: Diabetes and metabolic syndrome screening
- Cancer Screening: Age-appropriate cancer prevention assessment
- Internal Medicine Evaluation: Comprehensive general health examination
Preventive Medicine Approach:
The screening center emphasizes disease prevention and early intervention, allowing identification of musculoskeletal disorders before symptomatic presentation enables proactive management.
SPORTS MEDICINE & NATIONAL ATHLETIC SUPPORT
Official National Team Medical Support Partner
CM Hospital's designation as the official medical facility for Korea's National Athletic Training Center represents the highest recognition of sports medicine expertise. This institutional role reflects:
Extensive Athlete Experience:
- Treatment of 20,000+ elite national representative athletes
- Experience with Olympic-level competitive athletes
- Expertise in sport-specific injury patterns
- Knowledge of rapid return-to-competition medical protocols
- Understanding of athlete psychology and performance optimization
Comprehensive Sports Medicine Services
Acute Athletic Injury Management:
- Immediate on-field/sideline evaluation and stabilization
- Rapid advanced imaging (MRI, CT, ultrasound)
- Urgent surgical intervention when indicated
- Real-time consultation system with multiple sports medicine physicians
Athletic Injury Prevention:
- Pre-season conditioning assessment
- Injury risk identification and mitigation
- Movement pattern analysis identifying biomechanical dysfunction
- Preventive rehabilitation program design
- Equipment optimization and ergonomic assessment
Athletic Rehabilitation & Return-to-Sport:
- Accelerated rehabilitation protocols optimizing return-to-sport timeline
- Progressive functional capacity restoration
- Sport-specific movement retraining
- Psychological readiness assessment
- Graduated return-to-competition protocols
Performance Optimization:
- Musculoskeletal strength and power assessment
- Movement efficiency analysis
- Training program design for performance enhancement
- Recovery optimization strategies
- Nutritional consultation
Real-Time Consultation System:
A distinguishing feature of CM Hospital's sports medicine program is the real-time consultation system where multiple certified sports medicine physicians collaborate on complex cases. This institutional resource ensures athletes receive comprehensive evaluation and expert consensus decision-making.
Advanced Facilities & Medical Technology
Surgical Technology & Operating Room Infrastructure
- High-Definition Arthroscopic Systems: Advanced image magnification enabling precise visualization during arthroscopic procedures
- Arthroscopic Instrumentation: Comprehensive micro-invasive surgical tool inventory
- Endoscopic Spine Surgery Equipment: Advanced equipment for minimally invasive spine intervention
- Real-Time Fluoroscopic Imaging: X-ray guidance for precise surgical positioning
- Advanced Anesthesia Monitoring: Comprehensive perioperative patient safety systems
Diagnostic Imaging Equipment
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Detailed soft tissue and bone imaging for comprehensive pathology assessment
- Computed Tomography (CT): High-resolution cross-sectional imaging for complex bone pathology
- Ultrasonography: Real-time dynamic ultrasound assessment of joints, tendons, and nerves
- Digital X-Ray: Advanced radiographic imaging with minimal radiation exposure
- Electromyography (EMG) Equipment: Nerve and muscle function assessment
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Facilities
- Exercise Therapy Gym: Comprehensive equipment for therapeutic and strength training
- Hydrotherapy Facilities: Aquatic therapy pools for low-impact rehabilitation
- Manual Therapy Treatment Rooms: Private spaces for hands-on therapeutic intervention
- Modality Treatment Areas: Equipment for electrical stimulation, ultrasound, heat/cold therapy
- Movement Analysis Laboratory: Video and kinetic analysis of movement patterns
Hospital Amenities
- Comfortable Waiting Areas: Patient-centered design reducing stress
- Private Consultation Rooms: Confidential physician-patient communication
- Modern Operating Suites: State-of-the-art surgical environment
- Recovery Areas: Post-operative monitoring and comfort facilities
- Patient Education Center: Resources for informed decision-making
INSTITUTIONAL ADVANTAGES & DISTINCTIVE CHARACTERISTICS
1. Unparalleled Shoulder Expertise
With five dedicated shoulder surgeons and widespread recognition as the final salvage destination for failed shoulder procedures, CM Hospital represents the apex of shoulder surgical expertise in Korea. The hospital's distinctive rapid recovery protocols (3-4 months return to function) and reputation for salvaging complex revision cases establish clear institutional differentiation.
2. Leadership in Sports Medicine
As the official National Team medical partner with 20,000+ athlete treatment experience, CM Hospital maintains the deepest institutional knowledge of athletic injury management and accelerated rehabilitation. Dr. Lee Sang-Hun's pioneering role as Korea's first IOC-certified sports medicine physician established the institutional foundation for sports medicine excellence.
3. Comprehensive Orthopedic Coverage
Fifteen permanently stationed orthopedic surgeons ensuring comprehensive coverage across all major joint systems (shoulder, knee, ankle, spine) and sub-specialties. This depth of physician expertise ensures diagnostic and therapeutic excellence across the full spectrum of orthopedic pathology.
4. Minimally Invasive & Arthroscopic Excellence
Advanced arthroscopic and endoscopic surgical techniques minimizing tissue trauma, operative blood loss, post-operative pain, and recovery timeline. These micro-invasive approaches represent the modern standard for joint surgery with superior outcomes compared to traditional open procedures.
5. Integrated Stem Cell Regenerative Therapy
Pioneering use of mesenchymal stem cell therapy for degenerative joint disease and joint arthritis, offering biological repair and disease modification rather than purely symptomatic treatment. This regenerative medicine approach extends treatment options beyond traditional conservative care and surgical intervention.
6. Coordinated Multidisciplinary Care
Seamless integration of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, rehabilitation specialists, and sports medicine physicians in coordinated treatment protocols. This collaborative approach ensures optimal outcomes from surgical intervention through complete functional recovery.
7. Rapid Functional Recovery
Distinctive post-operative protocols enabling accelerated return to function (e.g., shoulder surgery patients regaining mobility and function within 3-4 months without specialized additional therapy). This recovery trajectory represents institutional excellence in post-operative management.
8. Real-Time Consultation System
Multiple sports medicine and orthopedic specialists available for immediate consultation ensuring comprehensive evaluation and expert consensus decision-making for complex cases.
9. Three-Generation Medical Legacy
70+ years of continuous institutional excellence with family tradition of orthopedic medical practice ensuring institutional values prioritizing precision, patient outcomes, and medical integrity.
10. Government Recognition
Ministry of Health and Welfare designation as joint specialty hospital combined with National Team official medical partner status provides institutional credibility and regulatory oversight ensuring quality standards.
PATIENT SELECTION & APPROPRIATE REFERRAL CRITERIA
CM Hospital is Ideally Suited For:
Shoulder Disorder Patients:
- Complex rotator cuff disease requiring surgical expertise
- Shoulder instability and dislocation requiring anatomic reconstruction
- Failed prior shoulder surgery seeking salvage procedure
- High-level athletes requiring shoulder reconstruction and rapid return-to-sport
Knee Joint Disease Patients:
- Acute and chronic meniscal tears
- Cruciate ligament injuries and reconstructions
- Knee osteoarthritis seeking biological intervention or surgical management
- Complex knee pathology requiring micro-invasive arthroscopic treatment
Spine Disorder Patients:
- Cervical and lumbar disc herniations
- Spinal stenosis and myelopathy
- Spine fractures and trauma
- Patients preferring minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery
Ankle & Foot Disorder Patients:
- Chronic ankle instability and recurrent sprains
- Ankle and foot arthritis
- Biomechanical foot disorders
- Complex foot trauma and reconstruction
Athletic Injury Patients:
- Sport-specific joint injuries
- Complex athletic musculoskeletal pathology
- Patients seeking rapid evidence-based return-to-sport protocols
- Professional and elite competitive athletes
Degenerative Joint Disease Patients:
- Early-to-moderate arthritis candidates for stem cell regenerative therapy
- Patients seeking biological disease modification rather than traditional joint replacement
- Multiple joint involvement requiring coordinated treatment
Post-operative Rehabilitation Patients:
- Accelerated rehabilitation and rapid functional recovery
- Athletes requiring sport-specific rehabilitation protocols
- Patients prioritizing rapid return-to-normal-activity timelines
APPOINTMENT & CONTACT INFORMATION
Primary Hospital Location
Address: 13 Yeongdeungpo-ro 36-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
Language Support: English, Chinese, Mongolian, Japanese
Secondary Hospital Location
Address: 187 Munrae-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
Operating Hours
Weekdays: 09:00 - 17:30
Saturdays: 09:00 - 12:30 (Noon)
Sundays & Holidays: Closed
WHY CHOOSE CM HOSPITAL?
Over 70 Years of Medical Excellence
Since 1949, CM Hospital has maintained an unwavering commitment to orthopedic surgical precision and patient outcomes. This seven-decade legacy reflects institutional values prioritizing technical excellence, evidence-based medicine, and patient satisfaction.
Korea's Most Experienced Shoulder Surgery Team
With five dedicated shoulder surgeons and recognition as the destination for complex shoulder reconstruction and salvage procedures, CM Hospital represents the pinnacle of shoulder surgical expertise. The hospital's rapid functional recovery protocols and reputation for successfully managing failed prior procedures establish clear institutional differentiation.
Official National Team Medical Partner
Designation as the official medical facility for Korea's National Athletic Training Center with 20,000+ elite athlete treatment experience ensures institutional expertise in athletic injury management, accelerated rehabilitation, and high-performance medicine.
Comprehensive Orthopedic Coverage
Fifteen permanently stationed orthopedic surgeons with deep expertise across all major joint systems (shoulder, knee, ankle, spine) and medical subspecialties ensure diagnostic accuracy and optimal treatment planning.
Advanced Minimally Invasive Techniques
Arthroscopic and endoscopic surgical technology minimizing tissue trauma, operative blood loss, post-operative pain, and recovery timeline while maximizing surgical precision and outcomes.
Pioneering Stem Cell Regenerative Therapy
Innovative use of mesenchymal stem cell therapy for degenerative joint disease offering biological repair and disease modification rather than purely symptomatic treatment or inevitable joint replacement.
Integrated Rapid Recovery Protocols
Distinctive post-operative rehabilitation programs enabling accelerated functional recovery. Shoulder surgery patients achieve mobility and function restoration within 3-4 months—exceeding typical recovery timelines.
Government Recognition & Oversight
Ministry of Health and Welfare designation as joint specialty hospital combined with National Team official partnership ensures institutional quality standards and regulatory compliance.
Real-Time Consultation System
Multiple sports medicine and orthopedic specialists available for immediate collaborative consultation ensuring comprehensive evaluation and expert consensus decision-making for complex cases.
Patient-Centered Care Philosophy
CM Hospital prioritizes patient outcomes, rapid functional restoration, and long-term quality of life. This institutional philosophy guides treatment decision-making emphasizing precision, integrity, and sustained functional improvement.


