Samuel Carlson, MD, is a fellowship-trained hip and knee replacement surgeon who specializes in direct anterior total hip replacement and complex hip and knee revision surgery. Dr. Carlson completed his Orthopedic Surgery Residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, where he had the privilege of working alongside world-renowned hip and knee arthroplasty leaders. He then completed a year of subspecialty training at Indiana University. In Indiana, he developed an expertise in rapid recovery protocols that facilitate outpatient hip and knee replacement while simultaneously expanding his training in revision surgery. Dr. Carlson participates in the TCO EXCEL Surgery and Recovery Program.
Dr. Carlson grew up in Sioux Falls, SD, and graduated summa cum laude from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He then completed medical school at the University of Iowa where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. Outside of work, Dr. Carlson enjoys spending time with his wife Shelby, golfing, skiing, running, cycling, and pursuing all outdoor activities that life in Minnesota offers.
Clinical Interest
Hip Care, including direct anterior total hip replacement, revision total hip replacement, prosthetic joint infections, periprosthetic fracture care
Knee Care, including total knee replacements, robotic-assisted total knee replacements, partial knee replacements, revision total knee replacements, prosthetic joint infections, periprosthetic fracture care
Fracture Care, including treatment of common orthopedic fractures
Sports Medicine, including non-surgical and surgical treatment of a broad range of injuries in athletes of all ages
Pediatric Care, including treatment of upper and lower extremity sprains/strains, sports injuries and common fracture care
Education
Certification
Board Eligible American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Fellowship
Hip and Knee Adult Reconstruction Fellowship, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
Fellowship Director: Michael Meneghini, MD
Residency
Orthopedic Surgery Residency, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, Rochester, MN
Medical Degree
Doctor of Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA
After years of managing my knee pain with injections and activity modifications, I finally decided to pursue a total knee replacement. I am grateful that my search led me to Dr. Samuel Carlson at Twin Cities Orthopedics. From my first consultation through surgery and recovery, the care I received was exceptional. Through diagnosis, surgery, EXCEL Extended Care, and physical therapy, the process was seamless and far beyond my expectations.
A knee replacement is an important life decision, and I couldn’t have asked for a better team. I highly recommend Dr. Carlson and TCO to anyone facing an orthopedic challenge. You only get one chance to do it right. Make sure you have the best surgical team. I am grateful I did.
April 27, 2025
Lawrence
I had a hip replacement with Dr. Carlson in January. Everything went excellent and I had minimal pain after the surgery. I had good communication with the doctor through the entire process.
April 22, 2025
Mike
I feel 20 years younger, and I can easily move around again. I was playing tennis two days after the surgery, and I felt great. I cannot say enough about how much better my quality of life is now!
April 11, 2025
Bill O.
Dr. Carlson is congenial, informative, caring, and an exceptional surgeon. Thanks for being there in my time of need.
April 8, 2025
Steve M.
I had hip surgery one year ago and I’m very happy and with the results. Dr. Carlson was very good in all aspects of the process and the follow up after. He gave me every piece of information for a successful recovery. I would highly recommend him for this surgery.
March 24, 2025
L. Krueger
Dr. Carlson has given great attention to my left knee and entire left leg/hip issues. The speed and attention to provide a cure to my pain issues are world class. I came to TCO to find solutions and was not disappointed. The entire team of experts who I worked with moved me to the replacement surgery needed in a timely fashion and the Excel process gave me comfort on the steps I would be going through before and after surgery.
Thank you Dr. Carlson and staff!
March 11, 2025
Lynn A.
I’d like to give a huge shout out to Dr. Sam Carlson and the whole EXCEL team at Eagan Viking Lakes. The entire process was so well organized and as stress free as possible. From the surgeon and RN coordinator to the anesthesia team and post op, to physical therapy, all run like a well-oiled machine. Couldn’t have been a better experience, and my hip feels great! Thank you!
March 4, 2025
Sandi M.
Dr. Carlson replaced my hip November 2024 at TCO’s Orthopedic Institute in Chaska. My surgery and recovery were as painless and timely as I could have asked for. The facility was clean, quiet, peaceful, and extremely conducive to positive healing. I had a single spacious room for an overnight stay. The food they tell me was nutritious and delicious. Most importantly, the staff were attentive, competent, friendly, and very helpful when needed. I was walking the day of my surgery and went home the following morning with complete directions on how to best care for myself and move toward a successful recovery with the help of my spouse. Because of the care and instructions I received, I walked into Dr. Carlson’s office on my own without any support device at my 2 week checkup. My progress continued from that point forward, allowing me to eventually walk 1 mile, then 2 miles as the snow melts. I look forward to eventually adding to that distance as my body walks as I once did without pain. I am highly recommending Dr. Carlson and his staff.
January 28, 2025
Dennis M.
Dr. Carlson and his team were outstanding in every respect. From my initial meeting with he and Jake, I knew I was in good hands. From start to finish, the surgery and aftercare were excellent. I am now 3 weeks post hip replacement surgery and am walking without aids – and I am experiencing very little pain. I cannot recommend Dr. Carlson and his team more highly.
January 7, 2025
Kathy D.
I received cortisone shots in my knees and it was the most excellent experience I have had while having this procedure. It was almost painless. Dr. Carlson is an excellent doctor!
August 29, 2024
Gretchen B.
Total knee replacement is a very big deal. I am 73 years old and was extraordinarily pleased. Dr. Samuel Carlson’s entire team made themselves available to answer questions and relayed messages to each other and the team in a timely fashion. Additionally, my husband and I were abundantly inundated (in a good way) with materials and videos about how to prepare for the surgery, what to expect during the overnight surgical recovery, as well as what to expect following surgery. I am a committed fan of Dr. Carlson and his team. Thank you for making an intrusive life event manageable and informational!
August 8, 2024
Chas M.
What a wonderful experience – from the first conversation with Dr. Samuel Carlson, through the Orthopedic Institute surgery & recovery to the follow up appointment I have been thrilled with the plan and as result my rapid recovery to mobility and minimal discomfort. The facility was top notch along with the staff, accommodation and teriffic food. Dr Carlson is thorough, direct and wonderfully easy to talk with – no bs! I can highly recommend this surgeon as well as the Orthopedic Institute for knee joint replacement.
July 15, 2024
Linda N.
Dr. Samuel Carlson recently performed my right hip replacement, and I am so thankful for his expert knowledge and surgical skill as I was up and about walking with ease and comfort soon after. It amazes me. Dr. Carlson took the time to carefully listen to me, explain my treatment options, and answer all my questions and concerns. I cannot convey enough thanks or positivity about Dr. Carlson’s outstanding care before, during, and after the hip replacement. It is great to walk about without struggling during each step. Thank you again, Dr. Samuel Carlson and staff!
April 18, 2024
Faith B.
I couldn’t be more pleased with the fine care and surgery by Dr. Carlson. In only 17 days post-surgery. I am only using my cane sparingly and am totally pain free. He is a miracle worker. I highly recommend him and the team at TCO. Thank you, Dr. Carlson!
April 16, 2024
David N.
Dr. Carlson did a fantastic job on my hip replacement. Dr. Carlson put an end to my severe pain and allowed me to walk again after six months in a wheelchair! I most highly recommend TCO. Thanks a million! Kudos!
April 2, 2024
Karen J.
I had an excellent experience with Dr. Sam Carlson for my hip replacement. Dr. Carlson used the anterior approach, which allowed me to be up and moving without a cane after one week. The whole team was competent, and professional throughout. I was pleased by how responsive Dr. Carlson and his team were to answer questions and address any of my needs during the process.
December 28, 2023
Josie J.
After two years of chronic pain and a sedentary lifestyle, Dr. Carlson gave me a second chance at life. He planned my knee surgery from start to finish, thinking through the best possible recovery for me. He discussed and explained all treatment possibilities while making eye contact and making me feel heard. He followed up with me when he said he would and made sure that I felt good about the recovery plan. He discussed an active lifestyle post-op and I’ve have never been more grateful for a surgeon in my life. Dr. Carlson definitely gave me a second chance to live to the fullest!
December 28, 2023
Lindsey C.
Dr. Carlson and his team were so calm, which made the process much easier for me too. I would recommend them if you ever need to have surgery.
December 15, 2023
Thomas M.
I couldn’t be more satisfied. Dr. Carlson gave me exceptional care and made sure I was recovering well.
