Dr. David Hartigan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon and a graduate of Mayo Clinic Orthopedic Surgery Residency program. He is dual fellowship trained in hip preservation/replacement at American Hip Institute in Chicago, IL and Sports Medicine at OrthoCarolina in Charlotte, NC. Dr. Hartigan specializes in all aspects of hip care including: hip arthroscopy, FAI, labral repair, periacetabular osteotomy, surgical hip dislocation, proximal hamstring ruptures, abductor tendon repair and minimally invasive anterior hip replacement. In addition to comprehensive hip care, Dr. Hartigan also specializes in all aspects of sports medicine including complex knee and shoulder disorders in both the professional and recreational athlete.
Dr. Hartigan spent the first three years of his career helping to develop the Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine program in Phoenix Arizona. He served as head team physician for the Phoenix Rising Soccer Club, assistant team physician for the NHL Arizona Coyotes, and a consulting physician for Arizona State University. Dr. Hartigan is dedicated to both research and education with over 50 peer reviewed journal articles, over 50 podium presentations on hip and Sports Medicine topics, co-director and co-founder of the annual Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Symposium in Phoenix, and serving as the associate program director of the Mayo Clinic Arizona residency program. He is excited to continue to build on these accomplishments as a Twin Cities Orthopedic Surgeon.
In his free time, Dr. Hartigan enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 children at various sporting events, the lake, and discovering new hiking trails in MN.
Clinical Interest
Hip care, including hip arthroscopy for labral pathology, hip endoscopy for trochanteric pain syndrome, abductor tendon tear treatment, peri-acetabular osteotomy for hip dysplasia, surgical hip dislocation for chondral lesions of the femur, minimally invasive anterior approach hip replacement surgery, core decompression, and biologic treatment of avascular necrosis of the hip
Elbow care, including tennis elbow surgery, distal biceps tendon repair, Tommy Johns surgery (UCL reconstruction), triceps tendon repair, and golfers elbow surgery
Fracture care, including ankle fractures, hip fractures, and knee fractures
Knee care, including ligamentous reconstructions about the knee (ACL/PCL/FCL/MCL), osteotomies of the knee for coronal plane mal-alignment, cartilage restoration techniques of the knee, patellofemoral realignment surgery, medial patella-femoral ligament reconstruction, quadriceps tendon repair, patellar tendon repair, and knee replacement
Shoulder care, including shoulder instability, rotator cuff repair surgery, superior capsular reconstruction, biceps tendon surgery, superior labral anterior to posterior (SLAP) surgery, shoulder impingement surgery, and proximal humerus fracture repair
Education
Certification
Board Certified, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Fellowship
Sports Medicine & Shoulder Elbow, OrthoCarolina, Charlotte, North Carolina
Hip Preservation, American Hip Institute, Chicago, IL
Residency
Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program, Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education, Rochester, Minnesota
Medical Degree
Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, Nebraska
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, Member (2009 – Present)
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, Member (2014 – Present)
Arthroscopy Association of North America, Member (2013 – Present)
Arthroscopy Association of North America, Associate Instructor (2016)
Arthroscopy Association of North America, Masters Hip Arthroscopy, Instructor (2016 – Present)
International Society for Hip Arthroscopy (ISHA), Member (2016 – Present)
Mid America Orthopedic Association, Member (2009 – Present)
Achievements & Awards
Most Outstanding Biology Student, Best GPA in Biology Program, University of North Florida (2001)
Academic Player of the Year – Peach Belt Conference (2003)
Nominee, Academic All American (2003)
Verizon Academic All District 1st Team, Verizon Academic (2003)
Summa Cum Laude, University of North Florida (2004)
Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, Creighton University School of Medicine (2009)
Hoover Award for Excellence in Residency, Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic (2015)
Top Doctor Rising Star: Voted an Orthopedic Rising Star by his peers in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023)
Appointments
Mayo Clinic Rochester, Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program, Administrative Chief Resident (2014)
Mayo Clinic Rochester, Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program, Surgical Interest Group, Member (2014 – 2015)
Mayo Clinic Rochester, Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program, Resident Welcoming Committee, Member (2010 – 2015)
Mayo Clinic Arizona, Department of Education Administration, Orthopedic Surgery Residency, Performance Evaluation Committee, Member (2016 – 7/2019)
Mayo Clinic Arizona, Department of Education Administration, Orthopedic Surgery Residency, Clinical Competency Committee, Member (2016 – 7/2019)
Mayo Clinic Arizona, Department of Education Administration, Orthopedic Surgery Residency, Associate Program Director (2017 – 7/2019)
Mayo Clinic Arizona Committees, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, C-Arm Standardization
Workgroup, Member (2017 – 7/2019)
Mayo Clinic Arizona Committees, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine Program Multi-Specialty Workgroup, Member (2016 – 7/2019)
Creighton University School of Medicine, Institute for Latin American Concern, Medical Student Volunteer (2008)
Creighton University School of Medicine, Magis Clinic, Medical Student Volunteer (2007 – 2009)
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona, Mayo Clinic Scholar (2015 – 2016)
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Instructor in Orthopedics (2016 – 2018)
Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Assistant Professor in Orthopedics (2018 – 7/2019)
Sports Affiliations
Team Physician: Arizona Ballet (2016 – 7/2019)
Medical Liaison: Cactus Bowl (2016)
Medical Liaison: Fiesta Bowl (2016)
Medical Liaison: Men’s NCAA Final Four (2017)
Head Team Physician: Phoenix Rising Professional Soccer (2017 – 7/2019)
NHL Assistant Team Physician: Arizona Coyotes (2018 – 7/2019)
Consulting Team Physician: Arizona State University (2017 – 7/2019)
I had both knees replaced by Dr. Hartigan. One in 2023 & the other in 2024. 5 weeks after my 2nd surgery, my newly replaced knee became infected. The infection got in my blood stream & moved to my other knee (apparently bacteria is attracted to metal) and to form a large abscess in one of my wrists. Dr. Hartigan & one of his colleagues performed 3 surgeries. One to remove the abscess and the other 2 were to “wash out” both knees (2 wash outs on each knee).
I’m now on my way to making a full recovery. I continue to be so grateful for the care that Dr. Hartigan, Aaron (his PA), Grace Ann (Care team) and others on his team provided throughout my journey. Obviously, none of us wanted the infection to occur. But that is always a risk with surgery and, given that it did, I can’t imagine a better team that I’d want to have on my side throughout. They are all are truly amazing, and I feel such deep gratitude for all of them.
January 7, 2025
Michelle V.
Dr. Hartigan is an exceptional physician. He has the rare combination of orthopedic skills and an outstanding bedside manner. He listens well, cares, and trusts patient’s lived experience. I’ve been through multiple health care systems with my pelvic and shoulder conditions and Dr. Hartigan’s performance, empathy and personality stand out among all. Thank you, Dr. Hartigan!
August 20, 2024
Kelly A.
I had gone to numerous doctors before finally finding my saving grace, Dr. David Hartigan. I had been dealing with hip pain for quite a few years. I had just kind of gotten used to the pain. I had numerous injections, tried many different anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, aquatic therapy, and obviously the good ole “rotate heat and ice.”
I started researching orthopedic hip surgeons, and I came upon Dr. Hartigan. From the first fist bump to the end of my first appointment, he had a plan of attack set up and I had scans and surgery scheduled and completed within a month. By my first follow-up appointment, I was already cleared to drive, which was way ahead of schedule. I’ve been nothing but happy with my recovery thus far, and it’s been almost three years since my surgery. I’ve had a few days that have been a bit of a struggle but that’s because of my fibromyalgia flaring up more after surgery. I’ll take that healing pain over the hellish pain I was in before surgery.
My only regret is that I didn’t advocate for myself sooner. I am and will be forever grateful to Dr. Hartigan, his care team, his surgical team, the nurses and receptionists, and the physical therapists. You have all given me my life back. I can walk and play with my niece and nephew without constant horrible pain. I have been able to exercise more and have lost weight thanks to Dr. Hartigan and his team.
June 14, 2024
Kevin M.
Dr. Hartigan did an outstanding job on my rotator cuff repair. He has a great bedside manner and sense of humor.
January 25, 2024
Steve D.
I had my hip replacement surgery recently by Dr. David Hartigan at Twin Cities Orthopedics. I am 1000% happy with the results. I was scheduled to have this surgery two years ago and I chickened out because I couldn’t imagine going through the surgery. I had hip pain every day for a long time. When I couldn’t deal with the pain anymore, I went back to TCO and Dr. Hartigan assured me that everything would be great. I am amazed at how well my surgery went. Dr. Hartigan is the best. I have not had any pain since my surgery and my quality of life has improved. I wish I would have done this surgery years ago. I feel like a new man. I recommend TCO and Dr. Hartigan hands down. Thank you, Dr. Hartigan and your team at TCO, for taking great care of me and my surgery. I am forever grateful.
March 20, 2023
Jeanne I.
We would like to thank Dr. Hartigan who replaced our 89-year-old mom’s shattered hip last year. He gave us another year with her, as she passed away earlier this year of natural causes. The entire Theis family thanks you!
March 15, 2023
Jeanniee G.
Dr. Hartigan and team did an excellent job replacing my hip. I’m 6 months on the new hip and am doing very well. I only need to take my cane if it’s icy out or if it is snowing. I highly recommend Dr David Hartigan.
December 9, 2022
Kris O.
I had my hip replaced by Dr. Hartigan on November 14th. I was up walking that afternoon pain free! What a joy! All the staff at the surgery center and in the EXCEL program were great. I had wonderful care. They took time to discuss options for medications and answered all of my questions. Unlike in a hospital, when I pushed my button for a request, they came instantly. Everyone from the driver of the van, to the support staff, nurses and PT were friendly and kind. I never felt rushed.
Both Dr. Hartigan and his PA, Aaron, have the best bedside manner. They took plenty of time to answer all my questions, and never rushed me out. I always felt very well taken care of. I cannot say enough about the wonderful program. My only suggestion is on some of the TCO branded clothing, it should say “ask me about my new joint!”. Thank you for everything. I am so enjoying life pain free!
September 16, 2022
Larry S.
At the age of 63, I was jumping on a trampoline and ruptured my left quadriceps tendon. I went to TCO Urgent Care in Blaine, and the staff there took great care of me. I then made an appointment with Dr. David Hartigan at TCO Maple Grove a few days later. Dr. Hartigan explained the details of my injury, the surgical intervention, and what rehabilitation would look like after surgery. He also spent time answering all of my questions, and was very comforting and confident that my surgery would be successful. During all of my follow-up visits, Dr. Hartigan explained in detail how my recovery was progressing. I feel he really celebrated my successes with me. Due to the severity of the injury, I was concerned I would not be able to walk normal, go up and down stairs, exercise, or golf again. One year later, I am doing all the things I was worried I wouldn’t be able to do! Rehab was, and still is, a very integral part of my successful recovery. After a few months of physical therapy, I continued with a strength and mobility regimen with a Certified Athletic Trainer, Ramon Rios. I have fully returned to all of the activities I participated in prior to my injury. Thank you, Dr. Hartigan for your skills, caring attitude, and kindness. You are a rock star!
June 13, 2022
Judy S.
Dr. Hartigan saw me for both knees and shoulder. He was impressive and had such a great way of communicating and putting me at ease. He helped me with an exercise program that brought my knees back to being able to hike and exercise again. He also ordered an injection for my shoulder that I haven’t had any further issue with. Thank you Dr. Hartigan for getting me back on my game!
December 13, 2021
Marsha D.
What wonderful care and information I was given before and after my surgery. Dr. Hartigan and his team are very knowledgeable and could answer all of my questions.
September 16, 2021
ChristineAnn L.
I received the best care ever with Dr. Hartigan and his PA, Aaron! After injections and no surgery, I am feeling like a new person! The pain is totally gone and range of motion is coming back strong. Dr. Hartigan is THE BEST! Aaron made the injection feel like it was nothing. It was just a satisfying experience with the best in this specialty. I can’t thank you enough!
September 9, 2019
Kerri
Dr. Hartigan listened to me and we worked together on a plan that would get me out of daily pain and back to normal activity. He was patient with me and thoroughly answered all my questions. I am extremely happy with the outcome.
August 23, 2019
Jason J.
Less than a week after my injury, I had my surgery and started my rehab process. It’s been 4 months since I had my surgery and have had no issues or setbacks in my rehab. A surgery that normally takes patients longer to recover from, yet alone return to professional competition. Safe to say the surgery was a success.
August 19, 2019
Cecilia S.
I was a noncompetitive runner for several decades, but in December of 2016 developed right medial knee pain which did not resolve with conservative measures. A torn right medial meniscus was diagnosed, in the setting of significant degenerative change to the knee. Both my sports medicine MD (non-surgeon) and the orthopedic surgeon to whom he referred me told me that I was not a surgical candidate given the multiple cartilage defects in my knee, and I was told that I would have to adjust to a new normal of very limited activity, and that I would require a joint replacement sooner rather than later.
I have learned that, when one has a medical problem that physicians tell you cannot be solved, it often pays to seek a second opinion. I was fortunate to seek that second opinion from Dr. David Hartigan. After reviewing my MRI and examining my knee, he told me that he believed that addressing my torn meniscus was worthwhile, even in the setting of my other degenerative changes. He was truthful and upfront so that I understood that my knee would never be normal again, but that he felt that chances were good that my symptoms would be improved and that I would be able to resume at least some improved level of activity. He operated on my knee in June of 2018; my recovery was relatively low-pain and simple. Dr. Hartigan prepared me well for what to expect post-operatively.
Since my surgery, my knee has gradually improved a great deal. As Dr. Hartigan stressed, I have not and will not run again so as to protect what cartilage remains, even though I miss running tremendously. However, I can do pretty much every non-impact activity that I want now. I can ellipticize without problem, ride my bike without any symptoms at all, and swim. I can walk long distances faster than most people I know. Most importantly, I have been able to hike again without issue. This 5th of July, one year after my surgery, I hiked with my family to the summit of Mt. Humphrey, the tallest peak in Arizona at 12633 feet, using sport hiking poles to limit impact, and had no problem with my knee whatsoever. I was elated!!
If you are looking for a skilled, knowledgeable and competent orthopedic surgeon to address your joint pathology, I highly recommend Dr. Hartigan!
-Cecilia
August 19, 2019
Carmine I.
I am a very active individual (75 years young) who was in tremendous hip pain in early March 2018 and I was looking for a hip surgeon who specialized in the anterior method of complete hip replacement. In doing my research attempting to identify a surgeon, our daughter-in-law (an ex-Mayo physician) passed along the name of Dr. David Hartigan. In my initial consultation with Dr. Hartigan, I was very pleased with his communication & medical skills. I felt extremely comfortable in all our discussions in every aspect of the procedure – Dr. Hartigan & I discussed exactly how/what was going to occur in the operating room; we reviewed all expectations relating to my hip pain, post-surgery do’s & don’ts and finally, I felt fabulous having Dr. Hartigan by my side in pre-surgery prep, during surgery and post-surgery. That evening after the left hip was completely replaced, all of my pain was totally gone and I was up walking around the floor. Also, in December 2018, Dr. Hartigan performed a right hip replacement with the very same positive results.
I feel totally confident that I can refer Dr. David Hartigan to any patient that presents with severe hip pain for a complete hip replacement. He is an outstanding hip surgeon, has great communication skills, awesome medical skills and is a very fine person.
His grateful patient,
Carmine
August 15, 2019
Collin F.
Dr. Hartigan was great to work with and did a great job with my knee surgery. I am a professional athlete and he was our team doctor. Dr. Hartigan did a great job getting me back on the field, healthy and fit to play.
