Patient Testimonials

I couldn’t be more satisfied with the care I received from Dr. Szalapski and his team. I had a total knee replacement (right knee) that went very smoothly. I was well informed about every aspect of the procedure and what to expect afterwards. I felt totally confident in Dr. Szalapski’s ability to perform this surgery. I appreciate his easy manner and sense of humor. He put me at ease which helped me get through the whole process. I am 2 months post-surgery and already taking daily walks. I have already scheduled my left knee replacement surgery with Dr. Szalapski in a couple of months. The care I received at the EXCEL recovery center was also exceptional. The attention and care I received was so comforting. Staff were more than just professional and competent. I truly felt like they cared about my comfort and well-being. I highly recommend Dr. Szalapski and the team at TCO and EXCEL.

I have been seeing Dr. Mair for my knee pain and issues for several years. Meniscus repair surgery and cortisone treatment on both knees helped for a quite some time, but in early 2024 we decided it was time for me to proceed with total knee replacement surgery on both knees . . . the strain from my years of marathon running and skiing needed to be corrected. We scheduled my surgeries for early September and early December which gave me time to continue strength training right up until surgery. Along the way, I had great communication from Dr. Mair and his team to help me prepare for my upcoming procedures. I felt confident in their process, I understood the mechanics of the TKR implant and procedure, and all of my questions were heard and answered. My first surgery experience was amazing from intake, pre-op preparation, meeting with the care Team, and the post-op car in the Two-Twelve care suite. I was prepared for the recovery thanks to the care team and followed their pain control and exercise recommendations. To be honest, days three through five were the toughest for me but the pain medication and cold compress therapy really helped. After that, the recovery gets better each week and I felt quite normal and sleeping well by about 8 weeks. My second surgery was also a fantastic experience. I was told that every knee is different and not to expect the same result or pain level as my first procedure. The procedure experience was great, but I did have more pain in the first week than my first knee, but after that, my recovery really caught up to my first knee and I felt back to normal in the same timeframe. The Physical Therapy through TCO is top-notch and the guidance provided helped me regain my strength quickly. At this time, I am a little over 6 months out from my first surgery and 3 months out from my second surgery. I have resumed my strength training routing with lots of squats, lunges, and leg presses. I can walk many miles now and I am getting back into cycling this Spring. Also, my scars are minimal, and they are fading quickly due to the great surgical procedures and post-op care. I fully trust Dr. Mair, his support team, and most importantly the proven processes they have refined over many years. I would recommend Dr. Mair and Team to anyone who is at the point of needing TKR. I feel like I have a new lease on life.

Dr. Bircher performed a total knee replacement on my right knee 4 months ago, and I cannot describe how happy I am! I’ve been bone on bone in both knees for more than a decade (the right knee being the worst) and had not been able to straighten my right knee. I had seen Dr. Bircher on various occasions for cortisone shots but was terrified about having the replacement done. About a year ago, I’d had enough of the pain and not being able to enjoy my life fully so I went to talk to him about having the surgery. I left my appointment feeling disappointed because he told me I needed to lose at least 30 pounds before we could schedule surgery. I decided to buckle down and do it! I lost 45 pounds and went to see him again and was able to have surgery scheduled! I have been beyond happy; my recovery went exceptionally well, and I can fully extend my leg. I’ve been walking 2 miles a day, painting my house, and I can walk up and down stairs like I used to!!! Our family has an annual fishing contest at a large park in the area, and we end up walking close to 5 miles. It’s been extremely painful in the past, but his year…I CANNOT WAIT!!! Thank you so much, Dr. Bircher!

 In August of 2024 I had robotic total knee replacement. Dr. Bircher and his team gave me a new life in that knee. I walk normally again and sleep so much better. In addition to excellent surgical work, Dr. Bircher’s explanation of the procedure and after surgery care was first rate.

I had my knee replacement surgery on 1/20/25 and was walking without aid (walker or cane) by the beginning of week 2. I appreciate all support from TCO staff and Dr. Lewis. Thank you to all who were involved in my journey. My surgery & recovery couldn’t have gone better.

This past year I had robotic-assisted total knee replacement of both knees because of an auto accident. The total professionalism and care of Dr. James Bircher and his staff made the experience easy to deal with. He explained each step and offered great advice on my aftercare. Thank you Dr. Bircher, his staff and TCO.

Dr. Scott Anseth performed work on both my left knee and right hip. A year after my knee replacement, I was skiing, not slowly, in Colorado. He took the time to listen to concerns and objectives, and his team was very professional in moving me through the process. After my right hip surgery, I’m able to walk without a cane after 7 days.

I’ve seen Dr. James Bircher over the last few years for different injuries and ailments. Most recently he performed a robotic-assisted total knee replacement, Dr. Bircher excels in kind, compassionate care as well as being an exceptional surgeon. He was patient in guiding me through the process, I felt well informed before, during and after the surgery. I appreciate his skilled ability and kind demeanor. Would highly recommend Dr. Bircher to others!!

Three months ago I had a total right knee replacement performed by Dr. James Bircher. He is very talented and knowledgeable, and uses the latest in knee technology and robotic-assisted surgery. I am extremely satisfied with the results.

I have excellent stability and full range of motion, don’t have any pain and with only slight swelling. My incision is perfect and barely visible. Dr. Bircher is very friendly, kind and easy to work with. I highly recommend Dr. Bircher for your knee replacement surgery.

After my first doctor retired, I was referred to Dr. James Bircher and so glad he is now my doctor. He did my second manipulation, and it turned out much better than my first. I was still having issues with motion and catching and clinking of my knee. Dr. Bircher recommended I try arthroscopic surgery to cut out scar tissue and it was so much better after that. Since then only has gotten better over the last several months. He also recommended I try ROM Tech Bike and ice machine which greatly helped with clonking and movement.

I just am so happy with everything he has recommenced and has done for me. He is so knowledgeable and very caring doctor. I would highly recommend Dr. Bircher to anyone needing knee surgery.