Patient Testimonials

I am one month out from a total hip replacement through the TCO EXCEL program. From the start of my visit at TCO Stillwater Orthopedic Urgent Care, to check-in at the High Pointe Surgical Center, and finally on to my ride down from the EXCEL Care Suites at the Omni Hotel at Viking Lakes, I found each step of the process nothing short of an incredible display of excellence. Every person I encountered from start to finish exhibited such passion for their work. At each stop, my physical and emotional needs were attended to with great care.

From the time Dr. Meisterling recommended surgery and told me my journey in the EXCEL program would be a successful one, I felt I was in the right place. Of course he was spot on! I felt more at ease undergoing this major surgery then I have with some dental work. I like to think that if you saw me now, you would not believe I am a hip replacement patient. Am I pleased? I AM. I feel blessed to have come upon TCO, Dr. Meisterling and the EXCEL program. Consider me delighted with the program, the people, the process and the success!

Dr. Bircher is awesome. After falling and breaking my hip previously, a surgeon at another practice repaired my hip using three screws. That repair just didn’t heal properly. I was then referred to Dr. Bircher. He evaluated the situation and recommended a total hip replacement as a second surgery to remove the screws and put in a new hip. The recovery went as expected and I am now virtually pain free and recovering on schedule. Dr. Bircher has excellent “bedside manners” and is not only good at what he does, but seems to enjoy what he does. Thank you so much Dr. Bircher, you are my hero.

I was suffering with a swollen leg and agonizing pain for one full year until I met Dr. Bircher and his entire care team at TCO. I was seeing another physician and he thought everything was going okay and that it could take a full year to see progress.

I went to see Dr. Bircher and he took an X-ray of my knee. He saw right away what the issue was and assured me that he could help me. He arranged my surgery in less than one month. Two weeks after surgery I was feeling better with no pain. Now, three months later, I can jog around with no pain or swelling. I feel so much better now.

I was so depressed before seeing Dr. Bircher and his staff. I can teach Martial Arts again. I fully trust Dr. Bircher and I wish he could have helped with my previous orthopedic issues.

My experience with everyone at TCO, Dr. Bircher, Cassie, and the physical therapy team at TCO Woodbury was exceptional. My questions and concerns were answered promptly. I feel like I had a lot of support with my recovery. I would recommend anyone to see Dr. Bircher because my experience was excellent.

I had a total knee replacement in November 2022. It was a successful surgery and I was doing great until I slipped on ice four weeks after the surgery. I tore the quadricep muscle from the knee and was barely able to move. I was referred to Dr. James Bircher, a specialist in injury repair. Dr. Bircher was absolutely fantastic. He took the time to explain what had happened to my knee, explained the surgical repair procedure and possible outcomes. He really took the time to listen to me.

What really impressed me was that he was never rushed. I felt as if he listened to me and took the time to thoroughly understand the issues surrounding my injury. When I had questions after our initial meeting, he called me back that day. He met with me a second time before the surgery, just to alleviate my fears and concerns. When it was time for the actual surgery, three weeks after the injury, he took great care of me. He made sure I understood everything and that I was as comfortable as possible. The surgery was very successful and Dr. Bircher remained in close contact with me after the surgery, making sure I understood how the healing would go. He also called me at home once I was discharged from the hospital.

I believe Dr. Bircher is one of the best doctors/surgeons I have ever met. His caring compassion and his skills and expertise make for the perfect combination. I would highly, highly recommend Dr. Bircher!

Dr. Bircher and staff were professional, personable and knowledgeable. I would recommend him!

Dr. Bakker did my carpal tunnel revision. He was very professional and very kind. I appreciated the time he took with me and the care and concern that he showed. I am doing much better now thanks to his surgical skills.

I want to thank Dr. Engasser for being so professional, proficient and kind during my surgery experience. I had so much pain in my foot and with surgery, but now I am able to do everything I want to. I experienced such a smooth and non-problematic journey, from the first visit with Dr. Engasser until the last. My foot is healing so well. I feel very blessed to have had such a good surgeon. Thank you!

Dr. Davis quickly and correctly diagnosed my issue after I had two laminectomies performed by another surgeon, which gave me no relief from my almost constant pain. I knew the sciatic pain was gone when I walked slowly around the halls the evening of my surgery! I healed quickly and can do anything I want now. Like hiking, biking, playing with my granddaughters on the playground, and stretching without pain. Dr. Davis and his team were wonderful and supportive. I highly, highly recommend him.

Due to the professionalism and knowledge of the entire staff, I experience a rapid recovery. Dr. Arntson‘s skill is what helped me heal quickly.