Patient Testimonials

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!

I recently developed an excruciatingly painful condition (a herniated L4-L5 disc and pinched nerve) in my lower back that rendered me unable to walk without crutches. We contacted Twin Cities Orthopedics (TCO) on a Thursday afternoon and described the condition. They were able to access my test data and arrange an appointment to see Dr. Eric Deal right away on Monday. After evaluating the situation, Dr. Deal patiently explained the condition and the possible treatment options. We decided on surgery, and they were able to schedule me right away on that Thursday at their Eagan location. The surgery went without a hitch, and I was able to walk almost immediately, only needing the assistance of a cane for balance for the first few weeks.

I can honestly say that working with TCO was the most positive medical experience I have ever had. Every member of the TCO staff was completely professional and genuinely caring at every step. The facilities were pleasant and modern, and most conveniently located. The anesthesiologist (Dr. Anderson) listened carefully to my concerns, and we were able to avoid any nausea or allergic reactions which have historically been a real problem for me. Dr. Deal and his team did an incredible job with the surgery and the aftercare. Following this rather complex procedure, I had almost no pain and required no medications beyond ordinary Tylenol. I simply cannot say enough good things about the technical expertise and genuine care this group provided, and I wholeheartedly recommend TCO without reservation for anyone needing orthopedic care.

My first appointment with Dr. Bircher was on April 11, 2024, and it took all of a few seconds for him to realize that I needed surgery. I had left hip replacement surgery on April 25, 2024. WOW, what a quick turnaround. I went from hardly being able to walk to getting up and walking without pain just a few hours after surgery. The total care team were so professional and caring. They answered all my questions and helped me in every way I needed.

Within 24 hours after checking into the hospital, I was on my way home to start my recovery. The care team said the best medicine for me was to walk, walk, walk, so that’s what I did. Now just over 2 months after surgery, I bought a new pair of roller blades so I could skate around the lake to get ready for the ice hockey season in the fall. Haven’t been able to play in many years. I am so impressed with Twin Cities Orthopedics and would recommend them to anyone in need of their services. Thank you so much Dr. James Bircher and the care team for giving me back my life!

An old knee meniscus injury (1977), exacerbated by 28 years of military service and thousands of miles training for marathons finally led me to make an appointment for nagging pain and lack of mobility. Dr. James Bircher recognized immediately after looking at my x-rays the need for a robotic-assisted total knee replacement. My surgery was 11 March, and I was able to walk my daughter down the aisle at her 22 June wedding unimpeded by pain. The initial recovery was not fun, but through great physical therapy at TCO and great care by Dr. Bircher’s team, I am able to walk pain-free for the first time in decades. Dr. Bircher and his team tells it like it is — the recovery will be tough the first several weeks, but by 6 months you will be better than before. I am waiting to see what 1 year brings! Thanks Dr. Bircher and team!

Four years ago, I broke my femur in a winter accident. The bone snapped, and Dr. Jason Holm surgically repaired it. I was terrified that I wouldn’t run again. As a 56-year-old woman, I’d been jogging for 40 years. The surgery was a huge success, and Dr. Hold assured me I could run a marathon again in the future. He was right. I was back to running within a few months, ran a half marathon five months later, and just completed a second post-injury marathon (with a great time). My leg is stronger than ever, and I am eternally thankful for Dr. Holm.

I was referred to Dr. O’Neill by another orthopedic doctor who felt the best way to fix all that was wrong with my hip was to replace it. At 56 years old, a hip replacement certainly was not on my radar. Dr. O’Neill and his team were incredibly kind and took the time to answer all my questions and encouraged me to take all the time I needed to make a decision.

I am so grateful to have my life back and be able to do all the things I enjoy!! The surgery and the EXCEL program were amazing! I was walking without the assistive device on day 3. I also rented the NICE machine, and it was a game changer for icing after surgery. I drove 2.5 hours one way to see Dr O’Neill and would do it again, if needed. Thank you so very much for getting me back to an active life!

Dr. Bircher performed my robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery. Once it was determined that I needed to have my knee replaced, Dr. Bircher and his team explained the entire procedure to me and what I could expect after surgery. I was very well pleased with the entire process and would recommend Twin Cities Orthopedics to anyone.

Excellent surgery care, all went very well. The EXCEL program is a blessing. All aspects of the experience went quite well all the way through physical therapy.

Dr. O’Neill handled both my total knee replacements this past year and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. From the initial assessment with Dr. O’Neill, I could tell this was a highly experienced surgeon with a very warm and reassuring personality. I could feel he genuinely cared about my well-being. Every interaction since that initial assessment was very positive. The recovery process has been steady and relatively swift. Now that my second knee replacement was 3 months ago, I am beginning to again resume a more active lifestyle which I had put aside years ago, like enjoying playing golf pain-free or taking long walks with my wife. I highly recommend Dr. O’Neill to anyone thinking about total knee replacement surgery. My only regret is that I didn’t see Dr. O’Neill years ago!

Given the complexity (in my mind) of this procedure and everything it entails, I am amazed at the efficiency, thoroughness, and level of care at all stages. Dr. Andrew Schmiesing, his direct TCO team, admin staff, the EXCEL program, and post-surgery caregivers all exceeded my expectations. From the earliest point in the process with Dr. Schmiesing, and through the procedure, post-surgery, and rehab, everything I experienced was smooth, high quality, and confidence-inspiring. Dr. Schmiesing and TCO have my highest recommendation.