Patient Testimonials

Dr. Bakker operated on my right thumb about a year and a half ago, and then my left thumb two weeks ago. Both surgeries had excellent outcomes. Dr. Bakker listened to my concerns and abided by my wish not to undergo anesthesia but to just have a “block”. Beyond that, he is one of the most gentle and caring surgeons imaginable. He personally follows up with a phone call and is extremely patient with questions and provides answers that are easy to understand. I am so grateful that I found him and could not possibly recommend him with more confidence. Neither operation caused me one minute of pain either!

I can’t describe how much I appreciate Dr. Bakker and his skilled team. I work with my hands and, even though I waited 5 weeks post injury to be evaluated, he was able perform a complex, newer surgical procedure to give me full function again. From my own experience, along with reading other reviews, to say Dr. Bakker cares for the patient is an understatement. I’ve not experienced such a high degree of genuine care, professionalism and competency in any prior medical care situation.

Dr. Bakker inspires confidence, listens, and treats the whole person through his performance and manner. It’s been my very fortunate honor to have been Dr. Bakker’s patient. He and his excellent team have my sincere gratitude.

If you’re looking for the best, there is no need in searching any further. I’ve had 5 hand surgeries that include: carpal tunnel both hands, trigger finger, and 3 finger fusions both hands. All of my surgeries were performed by Dr. Gerlach and done under local injection. Dr. Gerlach explained entire procedures in detail before and during surgeries. He and his entire crew were a lot of fun, they were always making jokes, and I enjoyed that.

Everyone involved in my care treated me as if they had known me for years. My comfort and wellbeing was very important to all involved in my cases. I can’t think of a negative thing to say. I highly recommend TCO and Dr. Gerlach. Take my word, you will not be disappointed.

I felt totally secure with Dr. Koch and the amazing team at TCO. She explained everything in detail and got me in as soon as possible. When I left a message with her team about an issue, she called me within a short time and addressed my issue. I would not hesitate recommending Dr. Koch to anyone. I am so pleased with my experience!

Over the past three years I have been under the care of Dr. Bakker for a problematic right wrist. The initial solution recommended was a series of cortisone injections, over several years. However, that solution finally failed and it was time to consider surgery. I did seek a second opinion, as I had a recommendation from another physician I knew. The other doctor’s recommended course of action was the same, but he did not have the calming bedside manner of Dr. Bakker, nor did he convey the confidence that came from Dr. Bakker during my pre-surgery visitation.

Most importantly, Dr. Bakker placed me in the care of the highly competent physical therapists on my post surgery follow up office visit. The two women that who work with his patients are a key to his patience’s recovery success. I saw them both and, believe me, they represent TCO very well.

I considered this operation very seriously as I am a very avid golfer. A couple of years ago, I play almost 60 rounds here in Minnesota. Although it still March and we not on the golf course yet I can recommend Dr. Bakker to anyone experiencing serious wrist and hand pain. I believe he is a tribute to the orthopedic profession and a healer to his patients.

I have had Dupuytren’s contracture for quite a while and decided it was time to take care of it. After Dr. McCarthy explained the procedure, I said “let’s do it, it’s time.” I came in on a Tuesday, she injected my finger, and I returned on Thursday for manipulation. Both went very smoothly with very minimal pain in either procedure. I had a splint immediately after manipulation and some swelling, but still, very little pain. After one week, my finger was straight! Dr. McCarthy made the whole process go very well. I wish I wouldn’t have waited so long. I would highly recommend her to anyone suffering from Dupuytren’s contracture.

After two failed attempts to fix my thumb, I feel that Dr. Bakker actually listened to me. I truthfully didn’t care what he did because I had researched his qualifications and I felt so comfortable with his decisions, I just wanted to be out of pain and not deal with this left thumb pain anymore! He did exactly what needed to be done. I knew right out of surgery what he did worked because that pain in the pad of my thumb was gone! I’m happy, excited to move forward in my activities (as therapy allows) and stay out of pain!

Also, the staff is so friendly! They call out ‘hello’ when I walk in or ‘thanks, bye now’ when I leave! I love it! I am somebody at TCO!

Dr. McCarthy was informative and with her knowledge and great skill, my hand is back to working and looking normal. From one meeting on a tele-med-call to manipulation and splinting, her and the staff have been top notch and second to none. I would encourage anyone to reach out and use the services at TCO. This one one of the best choices I’ve made.

As a “senior” I expect detailed information and a thorough explanation regarding surgical and medical procedures, and with my recent carpal tunnel/trigger finger I am happy to report that both verbal and written information before and after surgery was helpful and supportive. There was no wait time and cleanliness and safety was very evident from Dr. Gesensway and all of the staff involved with the surgery. I made a post-op phone call which was returned immediately. The pain management recommendations and plan was extremely useful without narcotic meds. With a right hand involved and size of the bandage/cast, I was not completely prepared for using my left hand for eating, dressing, meal preparation or hair washing and needed a little help. Not much dish washing or house work was done with my left hand since I live alone. I was happy to drive myself, rest when needed and slept well through the night. I also had an excuse to buy a few clothes to fit over the bandage/cast to make dressing easier. My adult, grown daughter warned me to have a post-op plan, and I did.

My family loves Dr. Koch. With all of the hand concerns and ailments we have had Dr. Koch and her staff are patient and caring and provide excellent care. I would recommend her to anyone.