Patient Testimonials

Dr. Owen O’Neill has replaced both of my hips. The first was done October 16, 2007 and the second was done recently on November 13, 2015. In 2007 he explained to me that the surgery would be as minimally invasive as possible but it was done using the then traditional approach (either lateral, from the side, or posterior, from the back). Actually the first was somewhat a combination of the two; I’ve described that left hip replacement as having the incision in a southwesterly location. I was told of the physical limitations and pain I would experience until I was fully recovered. I used crutches, did all of the physical therapy exercises and managed the pain with medication. There were no surprises and I was very satisfied with the results

The recent 2015 replacement was done using the direct anterior approach. Before the surgery Dr. O’Neill explained that this different approach should minimize the pain (and the necessary medication), speed healing and generally provide a quicker recovery. Of course I somewhat seriously asked why we didn’t do it that way the first time. It is now about 2-1/2 months after the second surgery and I’ve jokingly told Dr. O’Neill that hip replacement has become similar to getting fast food; drive up to the first window, insurance makes the payment, drive to the second window, get a new hip and go home.

I don’t recall exactly how long I used crutches in 2007, how much pain medication I took or how long it was until I was able to resume all physical activities without any limitations. I do recall enough to know the difference in the overall recovery from the two surgeries was remarkable. In 2015 I used the crutches for less than a week, I did not use all of only one prescription for pain medication, I was carefully riding the stationary bike in less than two weeks in addition to doing the physical therapy exercises and I was walking normally with no pain in about a month. At about a month post-surgery I was able to increase my workouts to about an hour and one-half nearly every day (bike, weights and exercises). I will resume outdoor biking up to 30 miles a day when Minnesota weather permits. My recovery from the most recent surgery was so much quicker and involved much less pain. I don’t believe any surgeon could have done a better job and it’s a big plus when your doctor is also a very nice fellow.

I could not have been happier with TCO- from start to finish it has been a very positive experience. All were so good to always communicate so I knew what to expect in time leading up to surgery, through surgery and throughout the recovery process. Very happy with Dr. Mair, Michelle, and Justine- they all took the time to answer all of my questions and let me know exactly what to expect. I also loved having surgery at the Two Twelve Surgery Center. It was a perfect fit for me! The room was great, nurses were so nice, great food, room was nice and quiet.

One thing I really appreciate is that Dr. Mair is very conservative. He did not recommend surgery until we had looked at all my options. I was so thankful that he was my doctor throughout the time leading up to surgery, during surgery and recovery. I had total confidence in Dr. Mair and his team. They have been wonderful!

In March, it will be two years since Dr. Knowlan replaced both of my knees. There are no words to express my appreciation. I was a 62 year old beat up P.E teacher with osteoarthritis and Dr. Knowlan came up with a plan for a bilateral knee replacement. Because of his surgical skills, I was on the driving range one month later and playing one week after that. Two years later and I have no need for ibuprofen, Tylenol, etc. I can walk daily for 5 miles and do the elliptical for 45 minutes with no pain and no discomfort. Great surgeon and wonderful physical therapists.

In April, 2014, I had a total ankle replacement done by Dr. Seybold and Twin Cities Orthopedics. Prior to the replacement, I could not walk without excruciating pain. I limped around everywhere I went and I was only 51. I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis. I had not heard much about ankle replacements and was reluctant to have any kind of surgery. I researched surgeons and decided to travel from Duluth, MN to come to TCO and see Dr. Seybold. He gave me an option of ankle fusion or total ankle replacement. After careful research, I decided on the total ankle replacement. I am so thankful for choosing the replacement and choosing Dr. Seybold as my surgeon. I followed all of Dr. Seybold’s instructions after surgery and spent several weeks not putting any weight on my ankle. In the fall of 2014, I was able to enjoy going out of town to see my nephew’s hockey game. His grandparents could not believe how well I could walk from the year before. This past summer, I spent time walking on the shores of Lake Superior, mowing my own lawn and simply enjoying things that I could no longer do prior to the ankle replacement. I’m enjoying life and enjoying walking without pain. I am so thankful for Dr. Seybold and the staff at Twin Cities Orthopedics for giving me my mobility back.

Dr. Lervick fixed my left elbow after a snowboarding accident 7 or 8 years ago. I am now a chiropractor, which means I rely on a healthy body (especially my arms) to perform my job. I haven’t had any problems with my elbow over all these years. Thanks!

Hi, my name is Brendan and I am 13 years old. When I was 12, I was jumping out of a tree and my foot got stuck and I tripped and caught myself with my left wrist. It looked pretty bad. I knew it was broken. We went straight to the emergency room and from there we went to Abbott where Dr. Bakker was on call. He was a super nice doctor and treated my arm better than I could have ever imagined. It healed really fast and I was back playing lacrosse in less than 8 weeks. The pins were cool and I think he is the greatest surgeon around.

Dr. Bakker helped my best friend; he was extraordinary beyond his profession. With compassion and concern, he saved her arm and fingers from amputation after she had already lost her legs from this tragedy. So, for the above and beyond care we received, thank you! To an extraordinary person and friend!

My experiences with Dr. Sanders began with an appointment for hip pain in 2013. I found him to be very professional, personable, friendly and ready to listen to the description of my symptoms. The arthritis in my hip required hip replacement surgery two years later. During that time, Dr. Sanders continued to treat me and his professionalism reassured me that I was in good hands. Now, two months post-surgery and completely healed, I know I was right! I cannot recommend him highly enough!

After more than five years of supportive, conservative knee pain management, my strength and stability had collapsed. It became apparent by continued pain, an x-ray and MRI, that it was my time for a total knee replacement. Dr. Heikes had been helping me manage my pain for years and helped as I moved into needing a new knee. Having the EXCEL Program as an option with TCO made my decision to do it now, that much easier.

Focused, multidisciplinary post-operative care in a non-hospital environment was optimal for me and my family. With my insurances’ approval, I took part in the TCO EXCEL Program having a left total knee replacement in June of 2015. I received top notch care and was walking down the hall that afternoon after an intense physical and occupational therapy session. With my own training at home, I am not looking back! Many adventures await!

I was admitted to Abbott Northwestern and my legs were amputated and it was thought my arm would be as well. Dr. Bakker, through multiple surgeries saved my arm against all odds. During all my surgeries he was professional and extremely kind! I can never say thank you enough to Dr. Bakker as my life would have been completely different without my arm!