Explore every episode of the podcast The Joint Replacement Podcast

What happens to a joint decades before someone needs a replacement—and can we change that trajectory?

Duke orthopedic sports medicine surgeon Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein joins Dr. Matthew Sloan to discuss ACL injuries, post-traumatic arthritis, menopause, osteoporosis, cartilage health, and strategies for maintaining healthy bones and joints throughout life.

They discuss why ACL reconstruction does not eliminate the risk of arthritis, the importance of the meniscus, whether running causes arthritis, how menopause affects cartilage and joint inflammation, when women should consider bone-density testing, and how resistance training, nutrition, and activity modification may help preserve musculoskeletal health.

They also explore treatment options for mild to moderate arthritis, including anti-inflammatory medications, PRP, viscosupplementation, supplements, and how patients can decide which activities are still worth doing when a joint becomes symptomatic.

A fascinating conversation about what happens long before joint replacement—and the rapidly evolving science of preventing or slowing the path toward it.

Professor Fares Haddad joins The Joint Replacement Podcast to discuss how technology, robotics, and increasingly personalized surgical planning are changing hip and knee replacement.

We explore his career across arthroplasty, complex revision surgery, elite sports, research, and editorial leadership, and how his surgical philosophy has evolved toward three-dimensional planning, cruciate preservation, partial knee replacement, and functional alignment.

The centerpiece of the conversation is his recent randomized study of robotic-assisted versus conventional medial partial knee replacement. We discuss why partial knees may be particularly suited to robotics, improved implant positioning, differences in Forgotten Joint Score, criticisms of implant-to-implant comparisons, and whether increased precision is worth the added cost.

We also discuss the RACER trial, mechanical versus functional alignment, why precision alone may not improve outcomes if surgeons are aiming at the wrong target, and how predictive analytics could eventually help determine patient-specific implant positioning.

Finally, Professor Haddad shares his perspective as Editor-in-Chief of The Bone & Joint Journal on evaluating new evidence, answers whether robotic joint replacement is truly “better,” explains who may be a candidate for partial knee replacement, and describes why robotics may ultimately prove most valuable in complex hip and revision surgery.

“You’re too young for a joint replacement. Come back when you’re 60.”

Is that still good advice?

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Sloan breaks down how surgeons approach hip and knee replacement in younger patients and why chronological age is only one part of the decision.

We discuss why joint replacement was historically delayed in younger patients, how modern implant materials have changed expectations for longevity, and why a patient who has surgery at 40 still needs an honest conversation about lifetime revision risk.

We also explore the other side of the equation: what can happen when someone with severe arthritis spends years waiting. Loss of muscle, reduced activity, weight gain, poor sleep, inability to work or exercise, and progressive loss of quality of life all matter when deciding when surgery is appropriate.

Dr. Sloan also reviews conditions frequently seen in younger patients, including hip dysplasia, femoroacetabular impingement, avascular necrosis, previous ACL or meniscus injuries, fractures, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Finally, we discuss activity after joint replacement, revision surgery, and the key question younger patients should ask when they are told to wait:

“What exactly are we waiting for?”

The right time for joint replacement is not determined by a birthday. It is a balance between the severity of the disease, its effect on your life, the alternatives that remain, and the expected risks and benefits of surgery.

What does it really mean when your surgeon says you need “medical clearance” before a hip or knee replacement?

Hospitalist and internal medicine physician Tyler Thurman, DO (@hospitaldoctort), joins The Joint Replacement Podcast to explain why physicians often prefer the term risk stratification—and what they are actually looking for before a patient goes to the operating room.

We discuss cardiac risk, EKG abnormalities, blood pressure, diabetes, sodium, anemia, kidney disease, hip fracture timing, preoperative testing, and which medical problems truly justify delaying surgery.

We also tackle the sometimes very different ways orthopedic surgeons and internal medicine physicians think about patients.

Then things get less serious.

Tyler and I go through a rapid-fire orthopedic surgery vs medicine lightning round: Why do hospitalists care so much about sodium? Which lab value do orthopedic surgeons understand the least? Who is more dangerous—an orthopedic surgeon reading an EKG or an internist reading a postoperative X-ray? And what do hospitalists actually think about all those orthopedic medical-management consults?

A practical—and occasionally sarcastic—look at what really happens medically before and after joint replacement surgery.

Fifty episodes. One season. A lot of questions about how we can make joint replacement better.

In this special Season One finale, Dr. Matthew Sloan looks back at the conversations, debates, patient stories, and ideas that shaped the first 49 episodes of The Joint Replacement Podcast.

Hear memorable moments about deciding when it is time for joint replacement, same-day surgery, recovery after knee replacement, modern implant longevity, the surgeon becoming the patient, the RACER Knee Trial, robotic precision and alignment, complex revision surgery, periprosthetic joint infection, OR teamwork, surgical training, and the changing economics of orthopedic care. The episode closes with the lessons Matthew has taken from the first season and an invitation for listeners to help shape what comes next.

Thank you to every guest, patient, surgeon, trainee, nurse, PA, surgical technologist, therapist, researcher, engineer, industry partner, listener, and viewer who helped build this community.

What do you want to see in Season Two? Send us your guest suggestions, controversial topics, new technologies, research questions, patient stories, or anything else you think deserves a deeper conversation.

We’re just getting started.

Dr. Andrew Schneider joins The Joint Replacement Podcast to discuss what it is really like to build a career as a young academic arthroplasty surgeon.

We talk about why he chose academics, transitioning from fellowship to attending life, building a referral base, balancing clinical volume with research and teaching, working with residents and fellows as a young attending, finding mentors, developing meaningful industry collaborations, and deciding which opportunities are actually worth pursuing early in a surgical career.

Dr. Schneider also shares his clinical philosophy on robotic-assisted joint replacement, why he combines robotics with kinematic alignment in total knee replacement, how he thinks about accuracy and precision in the current robotics debate, and why he believes partial knee replacement remains underutilized in appropriately selected patients.
We finish with anterior versus posterior hip replacement, the future of robotic surgery, artificial intelligence, big data, and a potential future where personalized surgical planning is informed by the outcomes of thousands of patients with similar anatomy and clinical characteristics.

An especially valuable conversation for orthopedic residents, adult reconstruction fellows, junior faculty, and surgeons interested in robotics and the future of arthroplasty.

What does knee replacement recovery really feel like?

Diana Braun knows firsthand. After delaying surgery for nearly a decade, she ultimately underwent simultaneous bilateral total knee replacement. That experience eventually led her to co-found The Knee Zone and co-author Knee Replacement Secrets with her husband, joint replacement surgeon Dr. Raj Sinha.

In this episode, Diana joins Dr. Matthew Sloan to discuss the patient side of knee replacement: how she knew it was finally time for surgery, why the mental recovery was harder than she expected, what bilateral knee replacement was really like, and why patients should think in terms of months rather than weeks when setting expectations.

They also discuss sleep, prehab, swelling, compression, assistive devices, driving, stairs, preparing your home, choosing a surgeon, avoiding the temptation to do too much too soon, and the importance of identifying the activities you want to get back to before surgery.

For anyone considering knee replacement, currently recovering, or caring for joint replacement patients, this conversation offers a practical and candid look at the recovery journey from someone who has lived it.

For more information visit https://thekneezone.com/

You can find her book Knee Replacement Secrets on Amazon at this link: https://a.co/d/0cg5WcFp

What does it really take to match into an adult reconstruction fellowship?

In Episode #47, Dr. Bill Hamilton of the Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic joins me for a practical guide for orthopedic residents preparing for fellowship. We discuss when to start preparing, what fellowship directors actually look for, research and recommendation letters, preference signaling, interview strategy, and how to build your rank list.

We also explore how residents should evaluate case volume, surgical autonomy, revision exposure, fellowship culture, clinic experience, robotics, manual surgical training, and academic versus private-practice programs.

Dr. Hamilton shares fascinating data from his upcoming study of the adult reconstruction fellowship match. The current environment appears increasingly applicant-friendly, with more fellowship positions available and applicants increasingly matching near the top of their rank lists. He explains why many applicants may only need 7–10 high-quality interviews rather than 15–20, and what residents should focus on instead.

If you’re a PGY-2, PGY-3, or PGY-4 considering a career in hip and knee replacement, this is an episode worth saving before fellowship application season.

For more information on the Learning SHAK visit https://www.learningshak.org/

Current Concepts in Joint Replacement information can be found at https://www.ccjr.com/

Maxwell Courtney, MD joins Episode 46 of The Joint Replacement Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about arthroplasty, research, health policy, and one of the biggest challenges currently facing joint replacement surgeons.

Dr. Courtney is Division Chief of Adult Reconstruction at Rothman Orthopaedics, an accomplished joint replacement surgeon and researcher, and Chair of the AAHKS Advocacy Committee. He was also my chief resident during my orthopedic training at Penn and someone I have looked up to throughout my career.

We discuss Max’s path into adult reconstruction, building a successful surgical practice, mentorship, research, evidence-based medicine, and how joint replacement has transformed over the past decade through TXA, multimodal pain management, rapid recovery protocols, and outpatient surgery.

Then we turn to the proposed Medicare reimbursement cuts facing total hip and knee replacement. Max explains how CMS and the AMA RUC value physician work, why increasingly efficient outpatient care has triggered another review of arthroplasty codes, and why much of the postoperative work performed by modern orthopedic teams may not be captured in the current reimbursement system.

We also discuss Max’s recent trip to Washington, DC, his conversations with members of Congress, the AAHKS strategy to push back against the cuts, the potential consequences for Medicare access and private practice, and his prediction for what may happen when the final 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule is released.

This is an important conversation about not only what surgeons are paid, but how reimbursement policy may shape patient access, physician independence, and the future of joint replacement in the United States.

Dr. Jesse Otero, MD, PhD joins The Joint Replacement Podcast for a deep conversation about complex joint replacement, periprosthetic joint infection, research, and building a career around the patients other surgeons often find most challenging.

Jesse shares the unconventional strategy he used to build a busy practice early in his career, including calling local surgeons and offering to take the revision, infection, and complex cases they did not want to manage. His first 17 cases were infected revisions, helping establish a career focused on being the surgeon other surgeons call when a case becomes difficult.

He also tells the deeply personal story of his grandfather’s knee replacement complication and subsequent infection, an experience that helped redirect his career toward solving the devastating problem of PJI.

We then discuss how the OrthoCarolina PJI program developed a registry containing approximately 5,500 patients, how a busy private practice can still produce high-level clinical research, and why standardizing care can transform everyday clinical practice into a research engine.

Finally, Jesse breaks down their prospective randomized multicenter trial of one-stage versus two-stage exchange for chronic periprosthetic joint infection headed by his colleague Thomas K. Fehring, MD. Among 232 randomized patients, infection-free success at two years was 97% after one-stage exchange versus 91% after two-stage exchange, with the trial demonstrating noninferiority of the one-stage strategy when performed using their rigorous protocol.

A fascinating discussion about surgical complexity, research, complications, resilience, and what may be the next major evolution in treating infected hip and knee replacements.

Disclosure: Dr. Matthew Sloan serves as a paid physician consultant and key opinion leader for ZetrOZ Systems, manufacturer of SAM ultrasound technology.

Can sound waves actually help treat arthritis?

Dr. Matthew Sloan is joined by George Lewis, PhD, CEO of ZetrOZ Systems, to discuss Sustained Acoustic Medicine (SAM) and the evolving role of therapeutic ultrasound in treating knee arthritis and musculoskeletal pain.

They break down how therapeutic ultrasound differs from the ultrasound used for medical imaging, what ultrasound may be doing at the tissue level, and why delivering treatment for several hours at home is fundamentally different from the short ultrasound sessions traditionally used in physical therapy.

The conversation explores who may benefit most from SAM, including patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, whether it has a role in bone-on-bone arthritis, and an important distinction between preserving a joint and actually regrowing cartilage.

They also compare ultrasound with cortisone injections, hyaluronic acid, PRP, TENS, laser, red light, and other nonsurgical treatments; discuss its use in professional athletics; review cost and insurance coverage; and address potential risks and contraindications.

Finally, Dr. Lewis shares the story behind developing a wearable therapeutic ultrasound device and his vision for where nonsurgical arthritis treatment may be headed.

If you have knee arthritis and are looking for options beyond medications, injections, or surgery, this episode provides a detailed look at one of the technologies trying to fill that gap.

#wearableultrasound #medtech #innovation #ultrasoundtech #kneeoa #arthritispain #painrelief

What happens when orthopedic trauma and joint replacement intersect?

Dr. Matthew Sloan is joined by Dr. Alon Antebi, a fellowship-trained orthopedic trauma surgeon whose practice spans complex fractures, pelvic and acetabular trauma, primary and revision joint replacement, and outpatient surgery.

Dr. Antebi discusses how surgeons decide whether to fix a hip fracture or replace the joint, when a partial versus total hip replacement may be appropriate, and why acetabular fractures present an entirely different reconstructive challenge.

They also explore Dr. Antebi’s nearly two decades of experience with the direct anterior approach, his early adoption of outpatient hip and knee replacement, bilateral joint replacement, and how he selects patients for same-day surgery.

The conversation goes deeper into some of the most challenging cases in orthopedics: converting previous fracture surgery to a hip replacement, dealing with retained hardware and altered anatomy, and treating patients with post-traumatic arthritis after major injuries.

Finally, Dr. Antebi and Dr. Sloan discuss how joint replacement has changed over the past 20 years, the financial pressures facing orthopedic surgeons and private practices, and why patients who have been told their hip or knee is “too complicated” may benefit from seeking another opinion from a surgeon experienced in complex reconstruction.

A wide-ranging conversation about trauma, joint replacement, outpatient surgery, and the evolution of modern orthopedic care.

What does a surgical technologist actually do during surgery, and how much does the team behind the surgeon affect what happens in the operating room?

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan sits down with Alyssa Ellis, CST, CSFA, creator of Beyond Assisting, for a behind-the-scenes look at life in the OR.

With more than 17 years of operating room experience, Alyssa explains the difference between a surgical tech and surgical first assistant, how the sterile field is created and protected, how great techs anticipate a surgeon's next move, and what separates an average surgical team from a truly high functioning one.

They also tackle one of the biggest challenges facing operating rooms today: staffing. Alyssa discusses traveling surgical techs, staff turnover, training, compensation, appreciation, OR culture, and why experienced team members cannot simply be replaced without losing something important.

Then the conversation turns to orthopedics: What are total hip and knee replacements like to scrub? Are revisions more fun than primary joint replacements? What makes a surgeon good to work with? What happens when something goes wrong during surgery? And if Alyssa could scrub only one operation for the rest of her career, which would she choose?

Plus, the important questions: Who controls the OR music? Which specialty has the most fun? What drives surgical techs crazy? And what is the grossest operation to scrub?

A fascinating look at the people patients may never remember meeting, but who play an essential role in keeping them safe during surgery.

The RACER Knee Trial is one of the most important randomized evaluations of robotic-assisted total knee replacement to date.

The headline finding is provocative: robotic-assisted surgery was more precise, but patients did not report better outcomes at 12 months compared with conventional total knee replacement.

But does that mean robots do not work?

In this episode, I’m joined by RACER Knee investigators Professor Andy Metcalfe and Professor Ed Davis for an in-depth discussion of what the trial actually tells us.

We examine the Forgotten Joint Score, statistical power, surgeon experience, alignment philosophy, MCL releases, patellar resurfacing, cemented versus cementless fixation, costs, study funding, and the difference between achieving greater precision and knowing exactly where that precision should take us.

We also discuss one of the trial’s most fascinating observations: patients who believed they received robotic surgery had substantially higher Forgotten Joint Scores than those who believed they underwent conventional surgery, highlighting the importance of blinding and patient perception in surgical trials.

Finally, Andy and Ed explain what they would change if RACER were designed today and preview what is coming next, including health economic analysis, learning-curve research, alignment analyses, and longer-term 2-, 5-, and 10-year follow-up.

RACER may not be the end of the robotics debate. It may be the beginning of a much more interesting question:

We have the ability to perform knee replacement with extraordinary precision. Now, do we know where we should put the knee?

Elizabeth Gausden, MD, joins The Joint Replacement Podcast to discuss one of the most challenging areas in orthopedic surgery: what happens when trauma and joint replacement intersect.

Dr. Gausden is an orthopedic surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery specializing in primary and revision hip and knee replacement, periprosthetic fractures, and complex reconstruction. After residency at HSS, she completed fellowship training in orthopedic trauma at UTHealth Houston and adult reconstruction at Mayo Clinic.

We discuss her path to dual fellowship training, fixation versus revision for periprosthetic fractures, nail-plate constructs and distal femoral replacement, direct anterior primary and revision hip replacement, robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement, collared cementless stems, cementless knee fractures, heterotopic ossification, the Quiet Knee recovery philosophy, and how modern fixation is changing what surgeons can accomplish in increasingly complex patients.

Dr. Gausden also previews the inaugural IOEN Traumaplasty Course in Orlando, October 2–3, 2026. The cadaver-based course brings trauma and arthroplasty experts together to teach practical techniques for periprosthetic fractures, revision reconstruction, and other challenging cases at the intersection of the two specialties.

🎓 FREE registration for residents and fellows
Use code: TRAUMA100

Course information and registration:
https://ioen.net/ioen-2026-traumaplasty-course-home/

What really happens after you leave the hospital following a knee replacement?

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I walk through the first month of recovery week by week—including the physical challenges and the psychological transition that patients may not expect.

We cover:

• Week 1: Survival & Stability — pain, swelling, disrupted sleep, fatigue, and learning to accept help
• Week 2: Variability — why recovery isn't linear and why a bad day doesn't necessarily mean you're going backward
• Week 3: The Emotional Dip — when progress can feel slow, motivation falls, and discipline becomes especially important
• Week 4: Momentum — when walking, strength, pain, and confidence may begin to noticeably improve

I also explain the “false plateau,” why doing too much on a good day can backfire, and why pain or swelling after increased activity can sometimes be feedback rather than failure.

The first month after knee replacement isn't just physical recovery. It's a transition from dependence to independence—and from uncertainty to confidence.

If you're preparing for knee replacement, recovering now, or helping someone through the process, this episode gives you a practical roadmap for those critical first four weeks.

For general educational purposes only. Individual recovery varies. Always follow the recommendations of your own surgical team.

What happens when a surgeon can offer both joint preservation and joint replacement?

Dr. Atul Kamath joins The Joint Replacement Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about how modern hip and knee care has evolved—from anterior hip replacement and robotic surgery to hip arthroscopy, osteotomy, cartilage restoration, partial knee replacement, and outpatient surgery.

This is also a personal episode for me: Dr. Kamath was one of my attendings during my orthopedic residency at Penn and one of the first surgeons to introduce me to the anterior approach to total hip replacement.

We discuss how the anterior approach has evolved, why surgical experience and fundamentals still matter in the age of robotics, and how technology is allowing surgeons to increasingly personalize joint replacement. Dr. Kamath describes his evolution from traditional mechanical knee alignment toward a more individualized, technology-driven approach.

We also take a deep dive into younger patients who aren't yet obvious candidates for joint replacement. Dr. Kamath explains the roles of hip arthroscopy, PAO, knee osteotomy, cartilage restoration, and partial knee replacement—and why the right procedure depends on much more than a patient's age.

Finally, we tackle some of the questions patients ask every day: Can PRP or stem cells regrow cartilage? When is an osteotomy better than a partial knee replacement? What is the role of core decompression for avascular necrosis? And when has arthritis progressed far enough that joint replacement becomes the more predictable solution?

A fascinating look at the continuum of modern hip and knee care—from preserving the native joint to replacing it.

Educational content only and not a substitute for individualized medical advice.

What does better joint replacement care actually look like—and should success be measured by the surgery itself or by the health outcomes that matter most to the patient?

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan speaks with Kevin Bozic, MD, MBA, Chair of the Department of Surgery and Perioperative Care at Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin and former President of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Dr. Bozic explains why value-based healthcare should focus first on improving pain, function, and quality of life rather than simply reducing costs. He shares how his multidisciplinary practice integrates physical therapy, weight management, behavioral health, and patient-reported outcomes to manage the entire spectrum of hip and knee arthritis—not just surgery.

They also explore bundled payments, Medicare reimbursement, the limitations of fee-for-service medicine, patient activation, appropriate surgical selection, and why the future may involve paying healthcare teams to manage a patient's condition rather than individual procedures.

Finally, Dr. Bozic shares a unique perspective as both a joint replacement expert and a joint replacement patient himself, including how he chose his own surgeon and why he cared more about surgeon experience, volume, outcomes, facility quality, and trust than the specific implant or surgical approach.

A fascinating conversation about what joint replacement looks like when we stop asking only “How do we perform surgery better?” and start asking “How do we improve the patient's health?”

🎧 Follow The Joint Replacement Podcast for weekly conversations with leaders shaping the future of hip and knee replacement.

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice.

What changes when a joint replacement surgeon experiences knee replacement from the other side of the operating table?

Dr. Farzin Kabaei is a Los Angeles orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, complex reconstruction, and orthopedic trauma. But his perspective on joint replacement is also deeply personal. After an ACL injury as a teenager, progressive arthritis, a high tibial osteotomy, multiple surgeries, and years of worsening knee pain, he ultimately underwent a knee replacement himself.

In this episode, we discuss how that experience changed the way he counsels patients about pain, expectations, timing, and recovery. We explore how to know when arthritis is truly bad enough for surgery, why an X-ray alone shouldn't determine whether you need a joint replacement, and why expectations for hip and knee replacement can be very different.

Dr. Kabaei also shares his approach to robotic knee replacement, anterior hip replacement and the bikini incision, injections including cortisone, hyaluronic acid and PRP, and the role of nutrition, exercise, breathwork, and preparation in recovery.

Perhaps most importantly, we hear what a knee replacement actually feels like from someone who both performs the operation and lives with one every day.

🎙️ The Joint Replacement Podcast

Educational content only. This podcast does not constitute individualized medical advice.

Dr. Stephen Howell is one of the pioneers of kinematic alignment in total knee replacement. In this episode, we explore his journey from ACL reconstruction research to developing one of the most influential alignment philosophies in modern arthroplasty. We discuss the biomechanics of the native knee, patient-specific instrumentation, implant design, robotics, and why restoring normal anatomy may lead to more natural-feeling knee replacements.

Whether you're a patient preparing for surgery or an orthopedic surgeon interested in the evolution of knee replacement, this conversation provides an in-depth look at where the field has been—and where it's headed.

Search The Joint Replacement Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to follow for future episodes.

For more information about the KA-Optimized curriculum please visit https://www.kaoptimizedtka.com/

In Episode #34 of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I welcome Professor Justin Cobb from Imperial College London, one of the world's leading orthopedic innovators and pioneers in hip resurfacing and implant development. Throughout our conversation, Professor Cobb shares how engineering, biomechanics, and decades of research have shaped his approach to hip replacement and led to the development of a next-generation ceramic hip resurfacing implant.

We discuss:

• Professor Cobb's journey into orthopedic surgery
• Implant design and innovation
• Computer-assisted surgery and robotics
• The evolution of hip resurfacing
• Ceramic-on-ceramic hip resurfacing technology
• Hip resurfacing versus total hip replacement
• Which patients may benefit most
• Bone preservation and athletic performance
• The future of joint replacement surgery

If you're interested in the latest advances in hip replacement or want to understand how today's innovations may shape the future of orthopedic care, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Search The Joint Replacement Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations with the world's leading joint replacement experts.

In Episode #33, Dr. Matthew Sloan sits down with Dr. Ran Schwarzkopf of NYU Langone Health to discuss the evolution of modern hip and knee replacement.

From robotic-assisted surgery and artificial intelligence to implant longevity, revision surgery, recovery, and choosing the right surgeon, Dr. Schwarzkopf shares decades of experience caring for complex joint replacement patients while offering practical advice for anyone considering surgery.

Whether you're a patient, surgeon, trainee, or simply interested in the future of orthopedic surgery, this episode offers an inside look at where joint replacement is headed—and what it means for patients today.

Dr. Jeremy Gililland is Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Chief of Adult Reconstruction at the University of Utah. With a unique background in mechanical engineering before medicine, he brings an engineer's mindset to some of the most complex problems in hip and knee replacement surgery.

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan and Dr. Gililland discuss:

• How designing bicycles led him to orthopedic surgery
• Why anterior hip replacement has become his preferred approach
• The evolution of complex anterior revision surgery
• Engineering innovations that led to the development of fluoroscopic navigation technology
• The future of robotics versus manual surgery
• Cemented vs. cementless fixation
• Hip fracture treatment and total hip replacement
• Research collaborations shaping modern arthroplasty
• How he trains residents and fellows in academic medicine
• Recovery timelines after hip and knee replacement
• When patients should consider joint replacement
• Advice every patient should know before choosing a surgeon

Whether you're a patient considering hip or knee replacement, an orthopedic surgeon, resident, fellow, or simply interested in the future of orthopedic innovation, this episode is packed with practical insights and thoughtful discussion.

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/

🎙️ Search "The Joint Replacement Podcast" wherever you get your podcasts.

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, comment, and share—it helps us reach more patients and healthcare professionals.

#JointReplacement #HipReplacement #KneeReplacement #OrthopedicSurgery #AnteriorHipReplacement

Dr. Blake Peterson joins The Joint Replacement Podcast for an in-depth conversation on modern hip and knee replacement, building a successful private practice, and where orthopedic surgery is headed next.

We discuss surgical mentorship, managing complications, robotics, functional alignment, ambulatory surgery centers, physician reimbursement, research, efficiency in the operating room, and how emerging technologies—including AI and autonomous robotics—may reshape joint replacement over the next decade.

Whether you're an orthopedic surgeon, trainee, or patient interested in the future of joint replacement, this episode delivers practical lessons from one of the country's most thoughtful innovators in adult reconstruction.

🎧 Search The Joint Replacement Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Can patients undergo hip or knee replacement without needing opioids afterward?

In Episode #30, Dr. Matthew Sloan welcomes fellowship-trained adult reconstruction surgeon Dr. Andrew Wickline to discuss how modern recovery protocols are changing one of the biggest challenges in orthopedic surgery: postoperative pain.

Dr. Wickline explains how reducing swelling, limiting unnecessary physical therapy, optimizing patient education, and using evidence-based multimodal pain strategies have allowed most of his patients to recover with little or no opioid use. He also shares lessons learned throughout his career, why surgeons should rigorously track their own outcomes, and how continuous improvement has transformed both his practice and his patients' recoveries.

Topics include:

• Opioid-free joint replacement
• Multimodal pain management
• Step count recovery protocols
• Physical therapy after knee replacement
• Compression and cryotherapy
• Extended tranexamic acid
• Same-day joint replacement
• Patient education
• Recovery optimization
• Surgical outcomes and data collection
• Lessons from two decades in arthroplasty

Whether you're a patient considering surgery or an orthopedic professional looking to optimize recovery, this conversation offers practical insights into where joint replacement is headed next.

🔎 Search "The Joint Replacement Podcast" wherever you get your podcasts! 🎙️

www.AndrewWicklineMD.com

❤️ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating, share it with a friend, and help us continue improving the reach of evidence-based joint replacement education! 🙌

Dr. Eric Cohen, adult reconstruction surgeon at Brown University Health and Assistant Professor at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, joins The Joint Replacement Podcast for an in-depth discussion on how modern joint replacement continues to evolve.

We discuss:

• The rise of same-day hip and knee replacement
• How COVID transformed arthroplasty care
• Who can safely go home the day of surgery
• Patient optimization before surgery
• Activity restrictions and returning to sports
• Robotic-assisted joint replacement
• Artificial intelligence and the future of orthopedic surgery
• New non-opioid pain management strategies
• Preventing infection after joint replacement
• Recovery timelines and manipulation after knee replacement
• Choosing the right joint replacement surgeon
• The future of education and training in arthroplasty

Dr. Cohen also shares his perspective on complex revision surgery, advances in recovery protocols, and why helping patients regain their quality of life continues to be the most rewarding part of his career.

🎧 Search "The Joint Replacement Podcast" wherever you listen to podcasts for more conversations with the world's leading hip and knee replacement surgeons.

Dr. Matthew Sloan welcomes Dr. H. John Cooper, adult reconstruction and revision joint replacement surgeon at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, for an in-depth conversation on the present and future of hip and knee replacement.

Dr. Cooper discusses his journey from biomedical engineering to orthopedic surgery, managing complex revision cases, robotic-assisted knee replacement, anterior hip replacement, infection treatment strategies, and the evolving role of AI in orthopedic practice.

The conversation also covers:

• Revision hip and knee replacement
• One-stage exchange for infection
• Robotic knee replacement
• Kinematic alignment
• Bikini anterior hip approach
• Patellar resurfacing
• Modern pain management
• Physical therapy after joint replacement
• Implant longevity
• Returning to sports
• Choosing the right surgeon
• Future technologies in arthroplasty

Whether you're a patient preparing for surgery, recovering from a joint replacement, or an orthopedic professional looking for expert perspectives, this episode offers valuable insights into modern hip and knee replacement care.

Subscribe to The Joint Replacement Podcast for weekly conversations with leaders shaping the future of joint replacement surgery.

Why are so many patients walking just hours after hip or knee replacement surgery?

The answer isn't simply better implants or robotic technology—it's the dramatic evolution of modern anesthesia and perioperative medicine.

In Episode 27, Dr. Matthew Sloan explores how multimodal pain management, spinal anesthesia, targeted nerve blocks, opioid minimization, and coordinated recovery protocols have fundamentally changed the patient experience after joint replacement.

Topics include:

• The shift from heavy sedation to precision-guided anesthesia
• How spinal anesthesia improves recovery
• Why nerve blocks preserve strength while reducing pain
• The concept of preemptive analgesia
• How robotic surgery complements modern recovery pathways
• Why early mobility is beneficial—but doesn't mean you're fully healed
• The role of personalized anesthesia plans

Whether you're considering surgery or simply want to understand how modern joint replacement has evolved, this episode explains the science behind today's faster, safer, and more comfortable recoveries.

The Joint Replacement Podcast delivers evidence-based education on robotic joint replacement, recovery science, implant technology, and the future of orthopedic surgery.

What makes a hip or knee replacement truly successful?

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan sits down with Dr. Wayne Moschetti of Dartmouth Health to explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—topics in modern orthopedic surgery: patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Dr. Moschetti discusses how orthopedic surgeons are moving beyond implant survivorship and X-rays to focus on what matters most to patients: pain relief, improved function, and quality of life.

Topics include:
• What PROMs are and why every patient should know about them
• How expectations influence satisfaction after surgery
• When it's the right time for hip or knee replacement
• Same-day joint replacement and advances in recovery
• Why some patients remain dissatisfied after knee replacement
• Evaluating painful hip and knee replacements
• The importance of surgeon experience and volume
• Revision joint replacement surgery
• AI, wearable technology, and the future of measuring outcomes
• Practical advice for patients considering joint replacement

Whether you're a patient preparing for surgery, recovering from a joint replacement, or a healthcare professional interested in value-based orthopedic care, this conversation offers valuable insights into how we define success after joint replacement surgery.

Dr. Michael Meneghini joins The Joint Replacement Podcast for an in-depth discussion on the future of hip and knee replacement surgery. As founder and CEO of the Indiana Orthopedic Institute and former president of AAHKS, Dr. Meneghini shares his insights on outpatient joint replacement, implant innovation, robotics, value-based care, and building one of the country's most successful vertically integrated orthopedic practices.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why outpatient joint replacement continues to expand• How ambulatory surgery centers improve patient care and reduce costs• Robotics and personalized alignment in knee replacement• Cementless implants and implant longevity• Smart implants, wearable technology, and future innovations• When patients should consider joint replacement surgery• PRP, stem cells, and biologic treatments for arthritis• Building physician-led healthcare organizations• Leadership lessons from serving as AAHKS president• The future of orthopedic surgery

Whether you're a patient, surgeon, resident, fellow, or medical student, this episode provides valuable insights into where joint replacement surgery is headed over the next decade.

If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, leave a review, and share this episode with someone interested in orthopedic surgery or joint replacement.

Many patients have heard of partial knee replacements and wonder if a partial hip replacement is an option for arthritis as well.

In this episode clip, Dr. Grayson Connors discusses one of the most common misconceptions in hip surgery: the difference between a partial hip replacement and a total hip replacement.

We cover:
• What a partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) actually replaces
• Why partial hip replacements are typically used for hip fractures rather than arthritis
• The key differences between replacing only the femoral head versus replacing both the ball and socket
• How age, mobility, arthritis, and overall health influence surgical decision-making
• Why many surgeons are increasingly choosing total hip replacement for active fracture patients

Dr. Connors also explains how advances in modern hip replacement techniques have made total hip replacement an attractive option for many patients who historically would have received a partial hip replacement.

If you've ever wondered why one patient receives a partial hip replacement while another receives a total hip replacement, this conversation breaks down the reasoning behind those decisions.

Subscribe to The Joint Replacement Podcast for expert discussions on hip replacement, knee replacement, arthritis treatment, robotics, recovery, and the future of orthopedic surgery.

In Episode 24 of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan is joined by fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon Dr. Blair Ashley for an in-depth discussion on modern hip and knee replacement surgery.

They explore when patients should consider surgery, how long implants last, the role of injections and biologic treatments, realistic recovery expectations, returning to sports, and how patients can choose the right surgeon.

The conversation also covers robotic surgery, partial knee replacement, outpatient joint replacement, infection prevention, and the future of arthritis treatment. Dr. Ashley shares her insights on what separates excellent surgeons from great ones and why patient expectations play such an important role in successful outcomes.

If you're considering a hip or knee replacement—or simply want to better understand the field of joint replacement—this episode offers practical guidance and expert perspectives from two experienced adult reconstruction surgeons.

The first 48 hours after hip replacement can set the tone for the entire recovery.

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan explains what patients should focus on during the first two days after surgery, including early standing, safe movement, ankle pumps, pain control, and protecting the incision.

You’ll learn why same-day mobilization matters, how ankle pumps help circulation, why staying ahead of pain is important, and how small early decisions can reduce complications and build confidence.

In Episode 21, Dr. Matthew Sloan interviews Dr. Michael Kheir, orthopedic surgeon, Director of Research, and Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan.

Dr. Kheir discusses the innovations transforming modern hip and knee replacement, including robotic-assisted surgery, advanced implant designs, cemented versus cementless fixation, and strategies for improving patient outcomes through education and expectation management.

The conversation also explores some of the most difficult problems in arthroplasty—including prosthetic joint infection, severe bone loss, and complex revision surgery—as well as emerging technologies that may change how surgeons manage these complications in the future.

Key topics include:

• How long hip and knee replacements last
• Triple-tapered collared hip stems
• Cemented vs cementless implants
• Robotic-assisted hip replacement surgery
• Anterior vs posterior hip approaches
• Patient education and recovery expectations
• Joint replacement infection research
• Revision hip and knee replacement surgery
• The future of arthroplasty innovation

A thoughtful discussion for patients considering joint replacement and surgeons interested in the rapidly evolving field of adult reconstruction.

Dr. Matthew Sloan welcomes Grayson Connors to Episode 21 of The Joint Replacement Podcast.

Dr. Connors discusses robotic-assisted knee replacement, anterior hip replacement, outpatient joint replacement surgery, modern recovery protocols, and how AI is beginning to influence orthopedic care.

The conversation covers:

• Robotic vs manual knee replacement
• VELYS robotics and precision surgery
• The Jiffy Knee technique
• Outpatient and same-day joint replacement
• Hip fracture treatment and partial vs total hip replacement
• Recovery timelines after hip and knee replacement
• Returning to sports and exercise
• Implant longevity and revision surgery
• Patient optimization before surgery
• The future of AI and orthopedic innovation

A practical and engaging discussion for patients, caregivers, and orthopedic professionals looking to better understand where joint replacement surgery is heading next. 🎙️

The Joint Replacement Podcast — Helping patients understand hip and knee replacement and the surgeons who perform it.

What happens when artificial intelligence, robotics, wearable sensors, and digital twins converge in orthopedic surgery?

In Episode 20 of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan welcomes Dr. Stefano Bini, Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at UCSF, founder of DOCSF, and one of the leading voices in digital orthopedics. Together they explore how AI is already transforming healthcare operations, how wearable technology may allow surgeons to monitor recovery in real time, and how digital twin technology could eventually personalize every joint replacement procedure.

Topics include:

• AI in orthopedic practice today• Agentic AI and clinic automation• Robotics and surgical precision• Wearables and smart recovery monitoring• Digital twins and personalized arthroplasty• Remote patient management and hospital-at-home models• Telehealth's future role in orthopedics• Predicting outcomes after joint replacement• The future of smart implants• Infection prevention and the next frontier in arthroplasty

Dr. Bini shares a compelling vision of how technology may help surgeons deliver more personalized, data-driven care while improving access for patients around the world.

If you're interested in the future of medicine, orthopedics, artificial intelligence, or healthcare innovation, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

For more on the future of orthopedic technology be sure to register for DOCSF October 1-2, 2026 in San Francisco at https://docsf.health/

Many patients ask the same question:

"If arthritis means cartilage is worn out, why can't you just replace the cartilage instead of replacing the entire joint?"

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Sloan breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions about arthritis and explains why advanced hip and knee arthritis is much more than a cartilage problem.

You'll learn why cartilage has such limited healing potential, how arthritis affects the entire joint, what injections and biologic treatments can realistically accomplish, and why modern joint replacement remains one of the most successful procedures in medicine.

Dr. Sloan also explores the future of arthritis treatment, including regenerative medicine, stem cell therapies, AI-driven early detection, cartilage restoration techniques, and the possibility that future generations may need fewer joint replacements because arthritis is prevented before it ever becomes severe.

Whether you're considering joint replacement, trying injections, or simply looking to understand your options, this episode provides a clear explanation of the science behind arthritis and the future of orthopedic care.

The Joint Replacement Podcast
Hosted by Matthew Sloan, MD

Helping patients understand hip replacement, knee replacement, arthritis treatment, robotics, recovery, and the surgeons who perform these life-changing procedures.

Dr. Matthew Sloan welcomes Dr. Michael Ast, Insall Chair of the Knee Service and Innovation Officer at Hospital for Special Surgery, for a wide-ranging discussion on the future of joint replacement surgery. Together they explore how robotics, artificial intelligence, outpatient surgery, implant technology, and modern recovery protocols are transforming the patient experience.

Dr. Ast shares his perspective on:

• The Quiet Knee Protocol and modern recovery strategies
• Reducing opioid use after surgery
• Robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement
• AI-powered patient engagement and recovery monitoring
• Same-day discharge and ambulatory joint replacement
• Cementless implants and implant longevity
• Partial versus total knee replacement
• The future of revision surgery and custom 3D-printed implants
• The impact of GLP-1 medications on orthopedic care
• The importance of physician leadership in healthcare

This conversation offers valuable insights for patients, surgeons, and anyone interested in where orthopedic surgery is headed over the next decade.

The Joint Replacement Podcast with Matthew Sloan, MD — helping patients understand hip and knee replacement and the surgeons who perform it.

In Episode 17 of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan welcomes fellowship-trained hip and knee replacement surgeon Dr. Yudi Kerbel, one of the most influential orthopedic educators on social media today.

Dr. Kerbel shares how he built a platform that reaches millions of patients worldwide, why patient education is more important than ever, and how social media is transforming the relationship between surgeons and patients.

The conversation dives deep into some of the most important topics in modern joint replacement, including:

• When it's time to move from conservative treatment to joint replacement
• How long modern hip and knee replacements really last
• The "Less Swelling, Less Pain" recovery approach
• Outpatient joint replacement and patient selection
• Partial knee replacement versus total knee replacement
• Why Dr. Kerbel believes many patients are excellent candidates for partial knees
• Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) for painful knee replacements
• Robotics, personalized alignment, and emerging technologies
• Infection prevention and patient optimization
• The emotional realities of being a joint replacement surgeon
• The future of orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care

Dr. Kerbel also shares his vision for helping patients avoid unnecessary surgery whenever possible and explains why he believes technologies like Peripheral Nerve Stimulation may dramatically change how orthopedic surgeons treat chronic knee pain in the future.

Whether you're considering a hip replacement, knee replacement, partial knee replacement, or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at modern orthopedic surgery, this episode is packed with valuable insights for patients and surgeons alike.

The Joint Replacement Podcast
Hosted by Matthew Sloan, MD
Helping patients understand hip and knee replacement and the surgeons who perform it.

In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan sits down with one of the most influential leaders in modern joint replacement surgery, Antonia Chen. Dr. Chen is the current president of American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons and Chair and Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

They discuss:

• The future of hip and knee replacement
• Periprosthetic joint infection prevention and treatment
• Robotic vs manual joint replacement
• Cementless knee replacements
• Same-day discharge and outpatient joint replacement
• Burnout and surgeon wellbeing
• How patients should choose the right joint replacement surgeon
• Recovery timelines, sports, and long-term implant longevity
• The future of biologics and arthritis prevention

Dr. Chen also shares her journey into orthopedics, her passion for research and mentorship, and her vision for the future of arthroplasty.

This is an insightful conversation for patients, surgeons, trainees, and anyone interested in the evolving world of orthopedic surgery.

Should you replace both knees or hips at the same time, or stage the surgeries separately? In Episode 15 of the Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan breaks down the real clinical pros and cons of simultaneous bilateral joint replacement versus staged procedures.

We discuss the physiologic stress of operating on both joints at once, differences in recovery and rehabilitation, complication risks, blood loss, anesthesia considerations, and which patients may — or may not — be good candidates for simultaneous surgery.

Topics include:
• Bilateral knee vs bilateral hip replacement
• Recovery intensity and mobility challenges
• Cardiac and pulmonary risks
• Blood clot and transfusion considerations
• Modern anesthesia and recovery protocols
• Patient selection and surgical judgment
• Why convenience should never outweigh safety

If you or a loved one are considering joint replacement on both sides, this episode provides a practical, evidence-based look at how surgeons think through these decisions and what patients should realistically expect during recovery.

n this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I’m joined by fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon Dr. Paul Jacob, founder of the Oklahoma Joint Reconstruction and Research Institute.

We discuss robotic-assisted joint replacement, outpatient surgery, patient optimization, recovery expectations, implant selection, partial vs total knee replacement, anterior vs posterior hip replacement, pain management, and the future of hip and knee arthroplasty.

Dr. Jacob also shares his unique perspective from starting his career as a physical therapist before becoming an orthopedic surgeon, and explains how that background shaped his philosophy on rehabilitation, patient education, and surgical outcomes.

Topics include:

• How to know when it’s time for joint replacement
• What separates good surgeons from great surgeons
• Cemented vs cementless knee replacement
• Robotics vs manual surgery
• Outpatient and same-day joint replacement
• Managing recovery with fewer narcotics
• Patella resurfacing controversies
• Choosing the right surgeon
• The future of revision surgery and implant technology

A great conversation for patients considering joint replacement and surgeons interested in where the field is headed.

After hip replacement surgery, many patients feel like one leg is longer than the other. Is it normal? Did something go wrong? In this episode, we break down the real reasons this happens, including the difference between functional and true structural leg length discrepancy, why surgeons prioritize stability, and how muscle weakness, pelvic tilt, and soft tissue tension affect recovery. We also discuss when this feeling is expected, when it deserves further evaluation, and what actually helps improve gait and balance after surgery.

Is hip replacement really a standardized surgery? Not even close. In Episode 12, orthopedic surgeon Matthew Sloan, MD breaks down the biggest controversies in modern hip replacement surgery — from anterior vs posterior approach and robotics to cemented vs cementless implants, dual mobility, same-day discharge, hip precautions, and the evolving understanding of hip-spine syndrome.

This episode explains why surgeons often disagree, why there’s rarely one perfect answer, and what actually matters most for patient outcomes. If you’re considering hip replacement surgery or want a deeper understanding of how surgical decisions are made, this episode provides straightforward, evidence-based insight into the nuances behind modern total hip arthroplasty.

Could the material inside a hip or knee replacement quietly trigger your immune system for years?

In this episode, Dr. Matthew Sloan breaks down the real science behind metal sensitivity and joint replacement implants — separating evidence from fear and marketing hype.

You’ll learn:
• What hip and knee implants are actually made of
• Why cobalt chrome, titanium, ceramic, and polyethylene are used
• The difference between a true allergy and metal hypersensitivity
• Why nickel is the biggest concern for sensitive patients
• Whether implant materials can contribute to inflammation or implant failure
• The truth about allergy testing before surgery
• When ceramic or titanium implants may make sense
• Why surgical technique matters more than the implant material alone

Most patients with joint replacements never experience clinically significant metal reactions. But understanding implant materials can help patients make better informed decisions and have more productive conversations with their surgeon.

This episode delivers a practical, evidence-based look at one of the most misunderstood topics in modern joint replacement surgery.

Most patients worry about the wrong complications after knee replacement—and the ones that actually matter are often not what people expect.

In this episode, I break down the 10 most common complications after knee replacement, what’s normal during recovery, what’s not, and the warning signs you need to pay attention to.

This is the same framework I use with my patients every day to help them recover safely and confidently.

We cover:

• Pain: expected vs concerning
• Stiffness and why early motion is critical
• Infection: how to recognize it early
• Blood clots and why early walking matters
• Implant loosening over time
• Fractures and fall risk
• Instability and “giving way”
• Swelling and how to manage it
• Nerve symptoms
• When additional procedures may be needed

The key takeaway:
These are possibilities—not probabilities.

Most patients do very well after knee replacement. But understanding the risks can completely change your recovery, help you catch issues early, and ultimately lead to a better outcome.

If you're considering knee replacement—or recovering from one—this is essential listening.

Most people think joint replacement is straightforward—fix the problem and move on. But the reality is far more nuanced.

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Ahmed Siddiqi, an orthopedic surgeon known for his patient-centered approach and expertise in modern hip and knee replacement. We dive into how great surgeons think beyond the X-ray—focusing on timing, patient mindset, surgical philosophy, and recovery optimization.

Dr. Siddiqi shares insights from his training at the Cleveland Clinic and his evolving practice, including how he approaches decision-making, sets expectations, and personalizes care for each patient.

We cover:

• How to know when you’re truly ready for joint replacement
• Why mindset may matter more than the surgery itself
• What separates a good surgeon from a great one
• Realistic recovery timelines (and the biggest mistakes patients make)
• Outpatient joint replacement and modern care pathways
• Robotics, data, and where joint replacement is heading next

This conversation is packed with practical insights for patients considering surgery—and for anyone who wants a clearer understanding of what actually drives great outcomes.

If you’re thinking about joint replacement or just want a behind-the-scenes look at how top surgeons approach care, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

You might think knee replacement is standardized—but it’s not.

In this episode, I break down the 10 biggest controversies in knee replacement and what they actually mean for you as a patient. These are real debates that surgeons have all the time—and in many cases, there’s more than one “right” answer.

We cover:

• Alignment: Mechanical vs kinematic—should every knee be perfectly straight?
• Surgical approach: Standard vs minimally invasive—does smaller mean better?
• Patellar resurfacing: Should the kneecap be replaced?
• Cemented vs cementless implants: How implants attach to bone
• Robotics: Does it actually improve outcomes?
• Implant design: Different philosophies on how the knee should function
• Tourniquet use: Helpful or unnecessary?
• Same-day surgery: Who can safely go home the same day
• Pain management strategies: Nerve blocks, anesthesia, and multimodal approaches
• Rehab protocols: How aggressive should recovery be?

The big takeaway:
👉 There’s more than one way to do this surgery well
👉 The surgeon matters more than the exact technique

These decisions are influenced by patient anatomy, goals, and surgeon philosophy—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.

If you’re considering knee replacement, this episode will help you better understand your options and ask the right questions.

Follow the podcast for more clear, honest insights into joint replacement—and share this with someone trying to navigate their decision.

Most people wait too long to get a joint replacement—and sometimes, they do it too early.

So how do you actually know when it’s the right time?

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I break down how I think about timing as a joint replacement surgeon and what I tell my own patients in clinic every day.

The truth is, there’s no perfect age and no perfect X-ray that tells you when it’s time for surgery. Instead, the decision comes down to a few key factors that can dramatically impact your outcome.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why X-rays don’t tell the whole story
• The 3 key factors that determine timing
• The most common mistakes patients make (waiting too long vs going too early)
• Why “you’re too young” isn’t always true
• What recovery really looks like—and why timing matters

If you’re dealing with knee or hip pain—or trying to decide whether surgery is the right next step—this episode will give you a clear framework to think about it.

👍 Follow for more straightforward, evidence-based insights on joint replacement
📌 Share this episode with someone considering knee or hip surgery

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I’m joined by Keith Connolly, MD, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement in Marquette, Michigan.

We cover a wide range of topics that matter most to patients considering joint replacement—from how to know when it’s time for surgery to what truly separates a good surgeon from a great one.

Dr. Connolly shares his unique journey into orthopedics, his approach to patient care, and his perspective on modern joint replacement techniques, including partial knee replacement, total knee replacement, and hip replacement.

🔑 What We Discuss:

• How long joint replacements really last• When it’s the right time to have surgery• What recovery actually looks like today• Partial knee vs total knee replacement — who is a candidate?• The importance of surgeon experience and volume• Common mistakes patients make after surgery• Pain management and minimizing narcotic use• Outpatient joint replacement and rapid recovery• Cemented vs cementless implants• Robotic vs manual surgery — does it matter?• When you can safely return to sports like golf, tennis, and skiing• The future of joint replacement and emerging innovations

🎯 Key Takeaways:

Modern joint replacement is evolving rapidly. Recovery is faster, techniques are more refined, and for many patients, these procedures can restore quality of life with durable, long-lasting results.

Perhaps most importantly, this episode highlights that choosing the right surgeon—and the right procedure for the right patient—matters more than any single technology.

If you’re considering hip or knee replacement, or just want clear, honest answers from experienced surgeons, this episode is for you.

👉 Follow The Joint Replacement Podcast for more expert insights on hip and knee replacement.