Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Joint Replacement Surgeon

Questions To Ask

1. Is The Surgeon Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained?

Board certification confirms that a surgeon has met rigorous national standards in orthopedic surgery. Fellowship training goes a step further, indicating advanced, focused education in a specific area such as adult hip and knee reconstruction. A surgeon with both has invested years beyond medical school and residency to build knowledge in joint replacement. Dr. Avino is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and completed a fellowship in adult hip and knee reconstruction at Cleveland Clinic after finishing his orthopedic residency at the University of Chicago.

2. How Many Joint Replacements Does the Surgeon Perform?

Experience matters in joint replacement. Research often associates higher surgical volume with smoother procedures and fewer complications. Ask how many hip and knee replacements the surgeon performs each year, and how many they have completed overall. Dr. Avino has performed more than 1,000 robotic-assisted joint replacements, giving patients the reassurance that comes with extensive hands-on experience.

3. Does the Surgeon use Robotic-Assisted Technology?

Robotic-assisted joint replacement allows a surgeon to plan each procedure using a detailed model of your anatomy and to position the implant with a high degree of precision. This personalized planning may support better alignment and, for many patients, a more comfortable recovery. Ask whether the surgeon is trained and certified on the robotic systems they use. Dr. Avino uses the Mako robotic system for both hip and knee replacement and is certified across its total hip, total knee, and partial knee applications.

4. What Surgical Approach Will Be Used?

There is more than one way to perform a hip or knee replacement, and the approach can influence recovery. For hip replacement, the direct anterior approach works between the muscles rather than cutting through them, which may help some patients recover more quickly. Ask which approach the surgeon recommends for your situation and why. Dr. Avino performs robotic-assisted direct anterior hip and knee replacements.

5. Am I a Candidate for Surgery, or Should I Try Other Options First?

A thoughtful surgeon will not rush you toward the operating room. Joint replacement is usually considered when arthritis pain limits daily life and non-surgical measures, such as activity changes, physical therapy, or injections, no longer provide relief. Ask the surgeon to explain why surgery is or is not the right step for you right now. Dr. Avino reviews both surgical and non-surgical options with each patient and helps them decide when the right time is.

6. What Does Recovery Look Like?

Understanding recovery helps you plan and set realistic expectations. Ask about the typical timeline, when you can expect to walk, drive, and return to your activities, and whether going home the same day may be an option. Many patients today can go home the day of surgery, though candidacy depends on your health and individual circumstances. Dr. Avino will walk you through what recovery may look like in your case.

7. What Are the Risks, and How Are Complications Handled?

Every surgery carries some risk. A trustworthy surgeon will discuss potential complications openly and explain how they work to prevent and manage them. Ask how the surgeon and the care team support you if something does not go as expected.

8. Who Will be Part of my Care Team?

Joint replacement is a team effort. Ask who will guide you before and after surgery and how to reach them with questions along the way. Dr. Avino works closely with a dedicated care team that supports patients from the initial consultation through recovery.

9. Will the Surgeon Personally Perform My Procedure?

It is fair to ask who will actually be in the operating room. Knowing that the surgeon you consulted with is the one performing your surgery can bring real peace of mind.

Choosing a joint replacement surgeon is a personal decision, and the answers to these questions can help you find the right fit. A surgeon who listens carefully, explains your options clearly, and has the training and experience to back it up can make a meaningful difference in your care.