About Dr. Rafael Portela
Dr. Rafael Portela is a dedicated healthcare professional who is passionate about medicine. With vast experience in his field, he has been a reference for many patients seeking not only treatment, but also human and attentive care. His patient-centered approach and commitment to excellence make him a reliable choice for those seeking quality healthcare.
Our Practice and Core Values
International Experience and Advanced Training:
With training in international centers of excellence, I bring a global and individualized vision to each patient.
Personalized and Multidisciplinary Approach:
Each patient is unique. I work in a team with other specialists and participate in discussions of complex cases to define the most appropriate approach for each situation.
Focus on Pain Minimization and Fast Recovery:
According to each patient, I try to use the latest minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, such as spinal endoscopy, which allow for faster recovery with less discomfort.
Commitment to Teaching and Innovation:
In addition to being a surgeon, I dedicate myself to teaching new techniques to other professionals and to constantly updating my knowledge, collaborating with reference institutions and organizations in orthopedics and spine surgery.
Professional Journey
2015 – Present
Orthopedic Surgeon Specializing in Spine at Unidade Local de Saúde Gaia Espinho (Medical Council Registration No.: 52837)
2020 – Present
Doctor for the Portuguese Federation of Winter Sports
2022 – Present
2023 – Present
Coordinator of Orthopedics at Trofa Saúde in Santa Maria da Feira
2024 – Present
Coordinator of Orthopedics at Trofa Saúde in Espinho (COGE)
DIPLOMAS AND CERTIFICATIONS
Global Spine Examination (AO Spine)
European Spine Course Diploma (EUROSPINE)
With a solid background in the spine field, I have completed several international internships that have enriched my clinical and surgical experience:
- Ganga Hospital (AO Spine Certified Center), India
Specialized Training in Spine Traumatology
https://www.gangahospital.com/super-speciality/spine-surgery
- Bordeaux Hospital Center, France
Specialized Training in Spinal Deformity Correction
https://bind.u-bordeaux.fr/en/
- Spine Center, Coimbra
Specialized Training in Degenerative Spine Pathology
https://www.spinecenter.pt/
- Montpellier Hospital Center, France
Specialized Training in Lumbar Disc Prostheses
https://www.ccv-montpellier.fr/en/
- Good MoonHwade Hospital in Busan, South Korea
Specialized Training in Biportal Spinal Endoscopy
- Integrated Master's Degree in Medicine (ICBAS, Porto)
- Complementary Residency in Orthopedics (ULGSE, Gaia)
- Master's Degree in Sports Medicine (FMUP, Porto)
- Master's Degree in Bodily Injury Assessment (FMUP, Porto)
- Master's Degree in Health Management (Católica Business School, Porto)