Dr. James Bircher is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in primary joint replacement and revision joint replacement. His surgical interests include partial and total knee replacement, hip replacement utilizing minimally invasive hip approaches including direct anterior approach, as well as hip resurfacing. He also treats a variety of general orthopedic issues, traumatic injuries, and fractures including periprosthetic fractures. Dr. Bircher also participates in the TCO EXCEL Surgery and Recovery Program.
Dr. Bircher is a Twin Cities native and graduated from White Bear Lake Area High School. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where he also earned a spot on the baseball team as a “walk-on” and was named to the Academic All-Big Ten Team. He received his medical degree from Des Moines University, and then moved to Ohio where he completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic, serving as Chief Resident during his final year. After five years of residency, he continued his training and relationship with the Cleveland Clinic for his fellowship where he focused on joint replacement surgery.
Outside of work, Dr. Bircher is a husband and father of 3 boys. His wife is a physical therapist who also grew up in Minnesota, and they love spending time exploring the outdoors, swimming, fishing, biking, and competing in triathlons.
Learn More About Dr. Bircher
Clinical Interest
Ankle Care
Hip Care, including Anterior Approach Hip Replacement, Hip Replacement, Hip Resurfacing, and Revision Hip Replacement
Knee Care, including Partial Knee Replacement, Total Knee Replacement, and Revision Knee Replacement
Shoulder Care
Sports Medicine
Trauma/Fracture Care
Wrist Care
Education
Certification
Board Eligible, American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery
Medical Degree
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA
Hospital & Surgery Center Affiliations
Eagan Orthopedic Surgery Center
Maple Grove Ambulatory Surgery Center
Maple Grove Hospital
North Memorial Health Hospital
Professional Affiliations
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
American Association of Hip & Knee Surgeons
American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics
Staff
Cassie O.
Care Coordinator
Patient Testimonials
April 19, 2023
Bonnie M.
I had troubles with bone-on-bone knee pain. I went through an exam to determine the requirements for a knee replacement. I met with Dr. Bircher and he explained the whole process and procedure. He successfully repaired my right knee and I am completely satisfied with the great care and post-op therapy. Dr. Bircher’s friendly attitude, positivity, and confidence helped with the process. I am now considering when to have my left knee replacement done too. Thank you, Dr. Bircher!
April 6, 2023
Kim L.
When I came to TCO Maple Grove with a painful hip condition, I had “muddled through” years of pain. I couldn’t walk normal distances or stairs without holding on to someone or something to steady myself. Activities like dressing, driving, getting in and out of a seat were challenging. I passed on social gatherings that involved walking. When I saw Dr. Bircher and his staff, he asked me specific questions about my symptoms, my lifestyle, and my goals for an improved lifestyle. Then he and his staff gave me their diagnosis and goals to aim for. I also had other health issues related to exercise, blood pressure, and breathing. He worked with my other doctors to coordinate the timing, treatments, and specific surgical requirements to assure my safety and a positive outcome. It worked! I am enjoying activities again and I am improving at a pace that’s comfortable for me, based on my goals and abilities. Don’t wait. See Dr. Bircher ASAP if you are in pain. Life can be fun!
March 24, 2023
Debra R.
Dr. Bircher truly cares about his patients. He took his time with me, answering my questions before surgery and afterwards. I am very satisfied with how my hip surgery turned out. I chose Dr. Bircher because he has a genuine concern for his patients.
March 1, 2023
Bonnie B.
I was referred to TCO by my primary care doctor and chiropractor. My leg and knee hurt so much, I could hardly walk. I saw Dr. Bircher at TCO and what a great surgeon he is. From my first visit to after surgery, he always explained what to expect with my total knee replacement. I am now three months after surgery and my knee is doing great. Dr. Bircher said there would be pain and there was! But now it is so much better. That is all in the past. Thank you, Dr. Bircher.
February 15, 2023
Eldean J.
I fell in October and was transferred by ambulance to the emergency room. I found out I had a broken hip and I had surgery the next day with Dr. Bircher. Since surgery, I haven’t had any problems with my hip and it was a quick recovery. I had two follow-up visits with Dr. Bircher and I explained my knee problems. After looking at the x-rays, he explained the options to me. Dr. Bircher is a good listener and is very good at calming me down! He was very thorough. I would definitely recommend Dr. Bircher.
December 23, 2022
Debbie L.
My husband went to see Dr. Bircher for a consult. I would give Dr. Bircher an A+ for bed side manners. His personality was so gentle. I really appreciated his caring attitude. We will be back.
