Patient Testimonials

Dr. James Bircher is a tremendous surgeon possessing a rare combination of exceptional talent, wisdom and compassion. I am truly grateful for Dr. Bircher and I would highly recommend Dr. Bircher and his ‘team’ to anyone seeking great orthopedic hip care.

My story begins almost three years ago. Having just moved to Minnesota from Wisconsin and suffering from severe right hip pain. After researching the biographies of TCO’s surgeons, I felt led to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bircher. During my initial appointment with
Dr. Bircher, two things occurred:
(1) I immediately realized that I had found the ‘right surgeon’ to replace my right hip
(2) I learned, incredibly, that I had to first lose almost 60 pounds before surgery could be safely accomplished

Almost two and one half years from that first appointment, I was scheduled for the replacement of my right hip having lost the required 60 pounds. On the day of surgery, prior to being wheeled into the operating room, Dr. Bircher met with me and asked if he could pray with my wife, our adult son & myself for God’s favor over the surgery – my response was – absolutely and so very much appreciated!

To my surprise, I learned that my severely deteriorated hip (according to Dr. Bircher, one of the worst that he had seen) was successfully replaced and that Dr. Bircher would be visiting with me shortly, and surgery was pronounced to be a ‘success’.  Three weeks after the surgery, I was able to go beyond my walking at home and begin walking around Lifetime Fitness’s walking track. And now February 24 2025, I still remain completely ‘pain free’ with ALL that I had to endure but a distant memory.

I take this moment to personally thank ALL involved in my hip replacement surgery:
Almighty God – for answering our prayers for a successful surgery (Psalm 77:11)
Dr. Bircher – for being the tremendous surgeon that he proved to be
PA Kari – who closed my incision to a point whereby it is now almost unnoticeable
Cassie – as the Care Coordinator who was always there to efficiently address the multitude of questions or needs relating to the surgery
Heather – my TCO physical therapist who did her very best to help me cope with all the pain I had to endure until the day of surgery.

My surgery experience with Dr. Owen O’Neill & his team has been exceptional. The surgery location was at Two Twelve Surgery Center in Chaska, everyone  there were professional and welcoming and go above and beyond expectations.  Once I was home I was going up and down stairs the first day, I didn’t need anything stronger than Tylenol for pain. Before hip surgery it took forever to go up and down stairs. Getting in and out of the car was extremely painful. I am back to my old self and pain free.

I would highly recommend Dr. O’Neill & his team to anyone needing hip surgery.

After dealing significant pain in my right hip, I was referred to Dr. Eric Busse by Dr. Chris Meyer. Dr. Busse spent a great deal of time showing me and explaining the issues that were causing my pain and limp. I recently had my surgery that I am sure will make a huge difference in my comfort and gait!  I have the most gratitude for Dr. Busse and his PA- Ashley Roerig.

 I had my hip replaced two months ago and everything is going good with the recovery. I am happy I had it done by Dr. Oneill! He and TCO where very good in their approach in my situation! This is the second hip surgery I’ve had, the first being 10 years ago where they did a resurfacing through the side, Dr. Oneill did it through the front and the healing from that approach was a much quicker recovery period than ten years ago. I’m happy he went with that approach! Highly recommend him as a doctor!

I am extremely happy with the outcome of my hip replacement and the care that I received with the EXCEL Surgery and Recovery Program! Dr. Owen O’Neill is a stellar provider who truly cares about your overall health and well being and wants you to have a successful outcome. It was unexpected to need a hip replacement at 29 years old,  but I feel so much better (substantially improved range of motion, no more aching daily hip pain, able to get back to regular activities, etc.) and feel that it was the right treatment option for me.

All of the staff at TCO has been friendly, helpful, and competent in providing me with the best patient care. TCO also does an amazing job at preparing you for surgery and what to expect post-op and they have great follow-up care to make sure that you are progressing well after surgery. I would recommend Dr. O’Neill and his team to anyone who is looking for orthopedic treatment options to get them feeling better and back to enjoying life!

Dr. Andrew Schmiesing listened to me and understood the importance of my scheduled vacation. He discussed the options to relieve my hip pain. Together we came up with a solution, which would help me walk without pain, and not delay hip replacement. Shortly after my trip, Dr. Schmiesing replaced my hip. He worked to get me scheduled quickly, so I could be ready for the upcoming pool and golf season. He took into account how important my activities are for me. In addition, he adjusted the length of my right leg with the replacement to match the left side previously replaced, which was 1/2 inch longer. Now I do not have to wear the lift in my shoe. I also appreciated seeing the X-rays and questions answered. Soon, I’ll be back on the pickleball court too!

Dr. Eric Busse is an excellent provider. When I met with him to explore the need to replace my right hip, he explained the pros and cons. Risks that needed to be considered as well as the benefits. He listened and addressed my concerns. The result of my hip replacement can be summed up in one word – spectacular. Dr. Busse has my full recommendation.

I would like thank Dr. Thomas Comfort for my many successful surgeries. Two knee revisions, 1 total knee replacement, both hip replacements and both shoulder replacements. He was very professional and willing to listen to all of my questions. He explained what he needed to do so I could understand. With more than 30 visits he still worked with me even on some of my default recovery due to possible a underlying issue I may have causing longer recoveries. I have and will pass his name on to other people that I think he could help.
Thanks Doc!

Dr. Owen O’Neill changed my life. Getting an appointment was quick and painless, and setting up for surgery was easy. Dealing with his excellent staff was a pleasure every step of the way. I can now stand up straight, walk without pain, and reach my feet to put on shoes and socks.
Life is good again.

When I discovered I had torn my hip labrum, I knew I needed nothing short of the best to handle the repair. After months of searching and meeting four different doctors, I found Dr. TJ Ridley and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. From our very first meeting, I knew he was the one I could trust with this important surgery. Dr. Ridley truly understands how integral activities like weightlifting and running are to those of us who live active lifestyles. His confidence and understanding made me feel reassured and optimistic every step of the way.

Now, just six weeks post-surgery. I’m feeling better than I ever expected at this stage. There’s still work to do, but I already feel great about the repair and the direction I’m heading. On the morning of the surgery, I was nervous walking into the surgery center, but as soon as Dr. Ridley entered the room, his calm, confident presence reminded me I mad the right choice.

Dr. Ridley goes above and beyond to ensure everything is done with precision and care. He has qualities that set him apart from others in his field. I hope I never need another surgery, but if I do, there’s no question I’d return to Dr. Ridley in a heartbeat. He’s truly the best of the best, and I can’t recommend him enough!