Patient Testimonials

My first experience with Dr. Saterbak was in 1999 for the repair of my left ACL. We crossed paths again in 2005 for a right ACL. In the meantime, the progression of osteoarthritis was being monitored in my left knee. I had gone through medications and variable injection treatments. I felt I had come to the end of the road in the fall of 2016 with the amount of pain persisting in my left knee. At that time, a visit to Dr. Saterbak resulted in an appointment to thoroughly investigate the possibility of a total knee replacement. All evidence pointed to that procedure and it was then scheduled for March 2017.

The whole procedure was to be performed as part of TCO’s EXCEL Program. The intro to final PT program that covered all aspects of the replacement and lifted concerns of outcomes.

Blue Cross Blue Shield had no issues with the funding. That was huge! Additionally, I felt as though I was number 1 on the list with the work that went into my case – the pre-op, surgery, post-op, follow-ups and PT.

Count me as a satisfied consumer of the program.

Charlie W.

I thought the TCO EXCEL Program was great. This was my first surgery requiring an overnight stay and having such a comprehensive, well-explained process was really appreciated. Dr. Hunt gave a good high-level explanation of how it all worked and it exceeded my expectations. Once surgery was scheduled, everything went smoothly, was well explained, super simple billing process and Dr. Hunt and all my caregiving staff were friendly, professional and had me back on track for walking farther than I thought possible.

My knee replacement by Dr. Chris Meyer in the TCO EXCEL Program was excellent! The all-inclusive program from the beginning to the end through physical therapy was comprehensive and beyond my expectations. No hassle billing was so nice – it was the way it should be. Knowing the cost in a bundle makes it so much easier on the patient.

My right hip replacement performed by Dr. Mair was perfect. Everybody was great at Two Twelve Surgery Center. My pain was minimal due to how they managed it with their schedule. I was walking the evening of my surgery. I followed my directions from physical therapists and doctors, it’s like my hip was never replaced. Highly suggest both Dr. Mair and the TCO EXCEL Program.

I would love the chance to see Dr. Steven Meisterling again and thank him for giving me my life back! The first time I went to see him in St. Croix Falls, I could barely walk into the clinic because my knee hurt so bad and it was affecting my hip too so that was sore. He showed me the x-rays of my knee and how little cartilage I had left. I was advised to first try wearing a neoprene brace on my knee which made an amazing difference for a while.

By the time of my operation, I was very bow-legged and limping very badly. All of the staff that I had dealt with were extremely helpful. I felt very comfortable going into the operation; the pre-op nurse and anesthesiologist were very comforting. My recovery was smooth with no problems and the staff checked in on me frequently. I loved my physical therapist, Dan Stark, during my recovery process as well – he was very helpful and such a nice guy.

My whole experience with the EXCEL Program at TCO was great. I would definitely recommend TCO to anyone and will not hesitate to go back if I ever need any similar procedures.

I had a fantastic experience. I referred a friend already to Dr. O’Neill for a hip replacement. I continue to work with TCO through Steve my trainer and use TCO for my orthopedic needs. The EXCEL Program was just the program I needed for surgery.

I was blown away by the overall process and how quickly I was back in action. I am young and in relatively good shape and I was coached by a number of people about how key rehab is. It was crazy to think that in a few short hours, I was on my feet walking the hallways. The rooms and care I received from Dr. Kruse and staff in my short stay were fantastic. Again, I was really blown away with the surgery process, recovery center quality and overall recovery from a major surgery.

My experience with Twin Cities Orthopedics and the EXCEL Program was very good. Dr. Panek is great. My hip replacement surgery went well. I couldn’t believe that I was walking the same day. It is amazing how much the new hip has improved my life. I’ve resumed sailboat racing and despite the pressure that it puts on my leg and hip, I have no pain. I ride my bike, walk miles on trips, ice skate, and participate in other activities. My leg feels so good that I often forget that I have an artificial hip. Sometimes when I go through airport or sporting event screenings, I forget to tell them and set off the alarm.

I had been living with knee pain for years and had visited several orthopedic physicians. Once I met Dr. Panek and his team, I immediately felt comfortable that they would handle my issues. Had a knee replacement in June 2018 and I can truly say “why did I wait so long?” Due to the skill of Dr. Panek, I now feel better than I have in years!

While participating in the EXCEL Program and with the expertise of Dr. Panek and his team, I have made a successful recovery from knee replacement surgery. I am back to kayaking, bike riding, walking, digging in my garden, re-arranging (large) rocks in my garden and living life to the fullest!

Almost ten years ago Dr. O’Neill replaced my right knee. It had been damaged in an auto accident several years earlier and caused me considerable pain and an awkward gait. I was and I am still very happy with that new knee. No pain and no limp! When my left knee needed to be replaced I did not hesitate to see Dr. O’Neill. I had the surgery in January and participated in the EXCEL program. The recovery was swift and the care was excellent. I appreciated the personable and professional and care I received, not only from Dr. O’Neill, but also from his office and clinical staff. They provided great information, listened to my questions, addressed my concerns and seemed happy to do it. Now that spring is finally here, I am delighted to be out walking the neighborhood!