Executive Summary

• When searching for the right joint replacement surgeon, it’s important to consider their level of experience, certification, and track record of success.  
• Consider what surgical methods or technologies a surgeon uses, like whether or not they use robotic technology or a minimally invasive approach. 
• Other important qualities to look for in a surgeon include compassion, experience, and strong communication skills.
• Consider the team at Scottsdale Center for Robotic Surgery in your search for a skilled joint replacement surgeon.

Joint replacement surgery is a positive step for those who need it and usually brings a great sense of relief to people experiencing long-term joint pain, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be stressful in some ways. Choosing the right surgeon can go a long way toward making the process more comfortable and less intimidating.

A good joint replacement surgeon is more than just someone who is experienced in the procedure itself. Although experience is important, other factors like compassion, trustworthiness, and communication skills matter too. All of these little things combined will increase your chances of a smooth procedure and enjoying the best possible outcome.

Understanding what qualities to look for and how to choose an orthopedic surgeon will promote confidence throughout the whole process so you can enjoy your path to more comfortable joints.

Understanding Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery involves removing the diseased or damaged portions of the joint and replacing them with artificial components. This procedure helps people experiencing extreme joint pain by addressing the underlying issues causing it and improving mobility for an enhanced quality of life.

The most likely candidates for joint replacement surgery are people experiencing extreme joint pain who have not found relief through other methods, like physical therapy, rest, or pain medication.

Common risk factors for joint replacement surgery include:

• Arthritis
• Previous injury
• Repeatedly overexerting a muscle
• Stress
• Obesity
• Age

The most common areas where joint replacement surgery can provide relief are the hip and the knee, but joint replacement in the shoulder can also be an option. At SCRS, we specialize in hip and knee replacement surgeries using robotic technology.

Why It’s Important To Choose the Right Surgeon

Choosing the right surgeon is vital for ensuring you have the right support through a smooth surgical process and ensuring the best possible outcome from your surgery. Choosing the right surgeon also means finding one that you feel comfortable working with so that you enjoy comfort and confidence throughout every step. As you start your research, consider the following three factors.

Procedure

Different surgeons may use different procedures for joint replacement surgery, so patients should weigh their preferred surgical process when researching surgeons.

As you look for a surgeon who provides a service that makes the most sense for you, you should consider:

• Minimally invasive vs. traditional – Minimally invasive methods use a smaller incision point to access the joint, reduce damage to the surrounding tissue, and promote a smoother recovery. Traditional methods are still safe but often require longer downtime.
• Robotic vs. non-robotic – New technologies have led to an increase in robotic surgeries. Robotic surgeries allow for greater precision and accuracy when replacing a joint. Not all surgeons offer robotic surgeries, but this may be a key consideration for some people in need of joint replacement surgery.

Preparation

The surgery itself is only one part of the process. Pre-surgery preparation and a strong post-operative aftercare plan are just as important for promoting a smooth recovery. A good surgeon makes an important difference when it comes to effectively communicating the pre and post-surgery plans.

Carefully researching to find the right surgeon means that you can be more selective and choose one who will take the proper steps to ensure you know how to prepare for your surgery and manage the recovery process.

Trust

An underrated but highly valuable component in choosing the right surgeon is your ability to trust them. Although you can’t easily measure trust, it plays an important role in the recovery process and promoting the best possible outcome. 

Being able to trust your surgical provider means that you are more likely to listen to their advice and let them know if you have any concerns throughout the recovery process. You can determine whether a provider is trustworthy by exploring their reviews and testimonials from past patients.

Qualities To Look for in a Joint Replacement Surgeon

Because joint replacement surgery can sometimes be a stressful process, patients should not compromise in choosing the right joint replacement surgeon. As you look for the right provider, consider the following factors:

• Board-certified in orthopedic surgery – Board certification is one of the most important indicators of a skilled and experienced surgeon. This certification shows that they have the knowledge and skills to perform successful surgeries and that they will continue to educate themselves on the latest surgical methods.
• Experience – Experience matters when choosing a reliable surgeon. Seek out a provider who has certifications, experience in the field, and a significant number of successful cases under their belt. For example, Dr. Martin has conducted over 4000 successful procedures.
• Post-operative care – The best surgeons follow up with their patients to ensure that they have everything they need for the recovery process. They should have a reputation for providing a post-operative plan and continue to check-in with patients after the surgery.
• Care and compassion – A surgeon who listens to and cares about your concerns is instrumental in the process. Explore patient testimonials regarding surgeons to learn more about the care and compassion they offer patients.
• Effective communicator – Choose a surgeon that has a reputation for being a strong communicator so that you can be sure all your questions are answered clearly and you fully understand the process. 
• Team – Because you will also interact with the rest of the team in the surgical center, it’s important to choose a surgeon who is surrounded by a caring and compassionate team with a positive reputation.
• Positive reviews – Research surgeons using resources like their website, Google, Yelp, and word-of-mouth to determine whether a provider has a history of patient satisfaction and a high quality of service.

Schedule an Appointment with Scottsdale Center for Robotic Surgery

To enjoy the best possible outcome from your joint replacement surgery, choose a surgeon who is both experienced in facilitating successful procedures and easy to communicate with. As you research, consider a provider’s surgical methods, demeanor, and reviews, as well as the team that surrounds them.

At Scottsdale Center for Robotic Surgery, our team of experienced surgeons, led by Dr. Shane Martin, creates an environment of faith, hope, and healing where patients feel comfortable and supported on their path to recovery. Using the latest technology combined with the compassion of our team, we aim to understand every patient’s unique needs and maintain a high standard of care for the best possible outcome.

Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about your options for joint replacement surgery and how our team works to meet your needs.