Need doctor for knee replacement

[djminardi]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ

[villagetinker]

I was in a similar situation, the doctor I was seeing got me a DONJOY knee brace, and it has worked wonders, my pain is near zero, I am back to bowling and golfing. Since I was expecting to have a knee replacement over the summer I was asking the same question. Of the 18 or so people I talked to Dr. Steven Ngyuen (I think I have the spelling correct) Optimotion was highly recommended as he does the side procedure which tends to have shorter recovery time. In any case all of the people I talked to indicated there was a waiting period to get the operation, up to 7 months was mentioned. If you have a primary care physician they may be able to help getting you to be seen by an orthopedic surgeon.
Send me a PM if you would like to discuss or see my brace.

[bagboy]

Without question, Dr. Steve Nguyen (pronounced Wynn). Worth whatever the wait time is.

Optimotion Orthopaedics | Orthopaedic Surgeon Orlando FL (https://www.optimotion.com/)

[rjn5656]

I also used Optimotion ((Dr Martinez) for both of my knees (one in 2023, the other in 2024), I was golfing in 6 weeks after both surgeries.

[bmcgowan13]

Without question, Dr. Steve Nguyen (pronounced Wynn). Worth whatever the wait time is.

Optimotion Orthopaedics | Orthopaedic Surgeon Orlando FL (https://www.optimotion.com/)

Ditto. My wife had her knee done sideways by him in November of 2023. The wait for the doc back then was almost a year---but you could get on the waiting list for cancellations which had dozen of names on it already.

They are fussy about their patients though. There (seriously) was a screening process to get "accepted" as a patient. The wait is so long for surgery they choose the patients best positioned to recover and succeed.

She highly recommended the practice. I just wish he'd picked a different name for the patented implant--Still reminds me of Steve Martin's Opti-Grab from The Jerk.

[MplsPete]

I can't offer much, but my brother is actively looking for this where we live. He is very impressed with Mako procedures . . . Mako is some kind of robot assisted surgery which may have some benefits. Of course, do your own research.

[Smalley]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ

The Florida Orthopedic Institute has an impressive group of orthopedists in all specialties including joint replacement. You will probably want multiple opinions which is why I am mentioning this group. The closest office is in Ocala. Please take a look at their website. Good Luck

[HoosierPa]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ

Optimotion only! Dr Dihn or Dr Nguyen

[garrykolb]

I was in a similar situation, the doctor I was seeing got me a DONJOY knee brace, and it has worked wonders, my pain is near zero, I am back to bowling and golfing. Since I was expecting to have a knee replacement over the summer I was asking the same question. Of the 18 or so people I talked to Dr. Steven Ngyuen (I think I have the spelling correct) Optimotion was highly recommended as he does the side procedure which tends to have shorter recovery time. In any case all of the people I talked to indicated there was a waiting period to get the operation, up to 7 months was mentioned. If you have a primary care physician they may be able to help getting you to be seen by an orthopedic surgeon.
Send me a PM if you would like to discuss or see my brace.

Which DONJOY brace do you have? I am dealing with bone-on-bone and so far, nothing has helped. If I can delay surgery, I'm all in. DONJOY offers so many different styles, I'm interested in which worked for you.

[jim@jedward.com]

I have had two knee replacements performed by Dr. Steven Quygen (Optimotion), one last October 7 and the other a week ago today. He is a pioneer in lateral entry which avoids cutting up into the quadriceps muscle, has less bleeding during and after surgery and drastically shortens recovery time. I was walking around the afternoon of the surgery. He has done over 12,000 knee replacements. I am extremely satisfied.

[dadcat]

Dr. Issac Mitchell. UF orthopedic

[srpack]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ

I have a friend that had Dr. Van de Leer for knee surgery. She was very pleased.
His #: 352-620-1900 17270 Terrace Blvd., Summerfield

[G.R.I.T.S.]

The Florida Orthopedic Institute has an impressive group of orthopedists in all specialties including joint replacement. You will probably want multiple opinions which is why I am mentioning this group. The closest office is in Ocala. Please take a look at their website. Good Luck

I second that. Dr. Justin Deen did my husband's when Dr. Deen was at UF Gainesville.

[Dkintzer]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ

If you’re willing to make the hour drive to Gainesville, my daughter works for UF Orthopedics & Dr. Farmer is great. If you want to stay around here Dr. Van De Lear with the orthopedic institute (1 office on 441 in Summerfield & 1 in Brownwood @ the Specialty offices) does only knees & hips & he is fantastic!

[Susan1717]

I had 3 horrific experiences with Dr Alfred Cook so do not advise. First, he forgot me in the office after my X-rays. Then said I needed immediate knee replacement. I decided to wait in second opinion from my doctor up north. Said I’d get a knee injection to hold me over. On next visit upon checking in, they had me in system for hip replacement!!!! Then, Dr Cook proceeded to try and give me an injection in the wrong knee!!! It’s been 7 years since and 2 doctors later of which both told me there is no way I need ANY surgery let alone a replacement!!! I get a yearly gel shot and am good to go!!

[cwmmfink]

Congratulations on both accounts! Time will fly. I have been here 10 years full time and it seems like just a few months. Good luck and best wishes.

[MandoMan]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ

Jon Radnothy in Tavares, who does surgery at AdventHealth/Waterman. That’s the closest A-rated hospital to The Villages, and nurses say he’s the one they’d choose if they needed the surgery.

[lvlwallach]

Dr Nyugen "Wynn" did both my knees. They have an office here for followup on 44. Optimotion Orthopedics. Great results. Lavelle

[hokieman]

I have a friend that had Dr. Van de Leer for knee surgery. She was very pleased.
His #: 352-620-1900 17270 Terrace Blvd., Summerfield

I would not recommend for any surgery. Two and half years of pain and he said nothing was wrong. Dr. Radnothy corrected and we found out - the knee replacement was the wrong size and the inside screw was loose.

[Nana2Teddy]

Which DONJOY brace do you have? I am dealing with bone-on-bone and so far, nothing has helped. If I can delay surgery, I'm all in. DONJOY offers so many different styles, I'm interested in which worked for you.
I’m interested in this info too. Thanks!

[sallyg]

Dr. Pulido at Univ of Fl, Gainesville. Top notch. Worth the drive.

[wbilbrey99@gmail.com]

Dr. Vanderlear

[dlebuis]

Dr Kerina at Unova Orthopedics on Rolling Acres did my knee replacement 5 years ago. I’ve been pain free since.

[Janie123]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ
I see Dr. Derrick Farr at Palm Ortho in Ocala. He does Stryker Mako robotic full and partial replacements, one of only 2 in the area. If the knees are candidates for partial knees, I highly recommend the partial route procedure.

[Sgt Ed]

Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ My left knee was replaced this past Nov. 19, 24 in Tampa by Dr Stephen Lyons from the Florida Orthopedic In institute. He used a prosthetic device that he helped design called the PERSONA IQ. Google it. Walked the same day and home the same day. In January I was back to riding my bike. Very little pain and the rehab can be done for 2 weeks at home and then at CORA in the villages. Totally happy and medicare covers it. 5 stars of 5.

[lwhitsel]

I had both my knees and both hips replaced. I used Dr Van de Leur at the Orthodaedic Institute on 441. He also has an office down at Brownwood. I have had no issues with any of the surgeries. He does the surgery at the West Marian Hospital in Ocala. Always had excellent care there.

[John Sarubbi]

[QUOTE=djminardi;2407077]Hi All
I am new to the community and I need a knee replacement. It’s bone on bone and the gel shots are not working.
Does anyone have a referral to an orthopedist knee surgeon in the area of the villages. I am truly grateful for any recommendations.
Thank you
DJ[/QUOTE
My 1st knee surgery was done by an ass and I had to have to done again. Don't go to Dr. Oviverre in Sumter.

[pendi99]

Dr vanderlaur (sp) ortho Institute

[markusb741]

Used Dr.Steve Nuygen Optimotion Orthopedics for both knees. Walked same day and full golf in 4 weeks. It's been two years and I'm skiing, golfing and river fly fishing. And they have an office in the Villages. Good Luck.

[KathyW]

Optimotion Orthopedics is great. They have an office on 44 near Brownwood where Drs. Martinez and Dinh are at. Dr. Nguyen is only in Orlando. (They all operate at a surgery center in Orlando right by Universal.) They all use Dr. Nguyen's patented procedure. Not usually a long wait if you use the two at The Villages Office. If you do a search on this site, you will find a large amount of knee replacements in The Villages are with Optimotion. Dr. Nguyen did mine in 2018.

[villagetinker]

I’m interested in this info too. Thanks!

Here is a link to one very similar to mine:
Amazon.com (https://www.amazon.com/DonJoy-11-1441-2-ARMOR-FP-ACL/dp/B00VS40R64/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1345802808222222&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DT8t1amOTy2VsBD2QGPfwsQhv75wI46oQ SB-hdlw_8ijVzzuKHIU3So8gK6ka8tQ1et1ZqQuOQjUzNVkEUEBjt xjC0zEUtwR0k8rygh06IdToPG0R_JSihIhkLMapeZh1KK4nPI7 TRF9LK-wV9UjiAaMKRyybHTwpcfkgAeWlsHqA1VRVmE1IahGTJCBk1I23 f57dNfNY2Hu34Tb3MgsB3t3cBmyqwaWft0lcZoCEPpXo_SszMo DPf93WSz7rGcOVfh8qvI-QBTJyOhoAOy_UD6l209Ta7J4VN9VgGtHsaomkPjAxY_wRvwY13 ALcfOnyqNgawWKG1FtHRfnq0MR1IoBwULs3a4tsQJQo9vfnBI. r4gj7_rhRy3LrHExGhlfoRlFqtddcE6f65qcoKoYa9M&dib_tag=se&hvadid=84112997991137&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=72708&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-84113044445419%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=8281_13546161&keywords=donjoy+knee+brace&mcid=8084f68586b536cf818f6ea50badcef8&msclkid=76adae0fe1c710c2dd19c9ab23419856&qid=1738851054&refinements=p_123%3A2906&rnid=85457740011&s=hpc&sr=1-1)

Here is the DonJoy site, and one very similar to what I have:
A22 Titanium Custom Knee Brace by DonJoy (https://www.donjoystore.com/donjoy-a22-titanium-custom-knee-brace)

And this is the exact model I have:
Buy DonJoy OA Nano Knee Brace | Unloader Knee Brace Support (https://www.rehab-store.com/p-donjoy-oa-nano-knee-brace.html)

[misspeck@comcast.net]

There are 2 different Dr Cooks. The one in the Villages does NOT do total knees replacements. Dr Williams is highly recommended. He is down near the hospital

[zuidemab]

I have a friend that had Dr. Van de Leer for knee surgery. She was very pleased.
His #: 352-620-1900 17270 Terrace Blvd., Summerfield

Yes. Agree Van de Leer is very good

[Aces4]

Here is a link to one very similar to mine:
Amazon.com (https://www.amazon.com/DonJoy-11-1441-2-ARMOR-FP-ACL/dp/B00VS40R64/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1345802808222222&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DT8t1amOTy2VsBD2QGPfwsQhv75wI46oQ SB-hdlw_8ijVzzuKHIU3So8gK6ka8tQ1et1ZqQuOQjUzNVkEUEBjt xjC0zEUtwR0k8rygh06IdToPG0R_JSihIhkLMapeZh1KK4nPI7 TRF9LK-wV9UjiAaMKRyybHTwpcfkgAeWlsHqA1VRVmE1IahGTJCBk1I23 f57dNfNY2Hu34Tb3MgsB3t3cBmyqwaWft0lcZoCEPpXo_SszMo DPf93WSz7rGcOVfh8qvI-QBTJyOhoAOy_UD6l209Ta7J4VN9VgGtHsaomkPjAxY_wRvwY13 ALcfOnyqNgawWKG1FtHRfnq0MR1IoBwULs3a4tsQJQo9vfnBI. r4gj7_rhRy3LrHExGhlfoRlFqtddcE6f65qcoKoYa9M&dib_tag=se&hvadid=84112997991137&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=72708&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-84113044445419%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=8281_13546161&keywords=donjoy+knee+brace&mcid=8084f68586b536cf818f6ea50badcef8&msclkid=76adae0fe1c710c2dd19c9ab23419856&qid=1738851054&refinements=p_123%3A2906&rnid=85457740011&s=hpc&sr=1-1)

Here is the DonJoy site, and one very similar to what I have:
A22 Titanium Custom Knee Brace by DonJoy (https://www.donjoystore.com/donjoy-a22-titanium-custom-knee-brace)

And this is the exact model I have:
Buy DonJoy OA Nano Knee Brace | Unloader Knee Brace Support (https://www.rehab-store.com/p-donjoy-oa-nano-knee-brace.html)

I'm happy that is working for you, Villagetinker, but I would RUN to get a knee replacement if I had to strap that on everyday to avoid it.

I had a full TKR 2 years ago with an excellent surgeon up north. The recovery takes a bit but now I have full, painless use of my leg and am so happy I proceeded with the surgery. I personally think it's better to fix things as you go and not be struggling with pain in your 80's. We'll have enough other pains by then.:shrug:

[paulledbetter]

I had mine done by a superb Dr....in Orlando He does the side (lateral) cut that does not cut through your nerve. Dr. Nguyen.

[pacevett78]

Dr. Petrella in Crystal River

[villagetinker]

I'm happy that is working for you, Villagetinker, but I would RUN to get a knee replacement if I had to strap that on everyday to avoid it.

I had a full TKR 2 years ago with an excellent surgeon up north. The recovery takes a bit but now I have full, painless use of my leg and am so happy I proceeded with the surgery. I personally think it's better to fix things as you go and not be struggling with pain in your 80's. We'll have enough other pains by then.:shrug:

I may not have been clear, I use the brace when bowling or golfing or when I expect to possibly strain my knee otherwise I use a simple pull over support. This combination has reduced knee pain to zero, and the doctors have recommended no replacement.

[Aces4]

I may not have been clear, I use the brace when bowling or golfing or when I expect to possibly strain my knee otherwise I use a simple pull over support. This combination has reduced knee pain to zero, and the doctors have recommended no replacement.

Ah, the clarity helps. Yes, if one isn't bone on bone there are some temporary pain relief options.

[mikemalloy]

As previously recommended, my wife and I both had knees done by Dr. Martinez at Optimotion. We both liked him and are happy with our results.

[Innserelli]

I’ll just add my two cents. I had my left knee replaced this late July. Optimotion! Dr Dinh! Very experienced and very skilled. Minimally invasive. Lateral approach. 6 weeks to play golf. I have full motion and no pain or problems. Terrific. I understand Steve Nguyen is equally skilled. My only caveat- you must do all the motion exercises for at least 6 full weeks. Hurts like the dickens. Don’t be macho. Take a pain pill before each exercise session, which makes a lot of difference. It helps to start before the surgery. Best wishes.

[Innserelli]

“ It helps to start before the surgery.”. I meant the exercises, not the drugs.

[La lamy]

I had 3 horrific experiences with Dr Alfred Cook so do not advise. First, he forgot me in the office after my X-rays. Then said I needed immediate knee replacement. I decided to wait in second opinion from my doctor up north. Said I’d get a knee injection to hold me over. On next visit upon checking in, they had me in system for hip replacement!!!! Then, Dr Cook proceeded to try and give me an injection in the wrong knee!!! It’s been 7 years since and 2 doctors later of which both told me there is no way I need ANY surgery let alone a replacement!!! I get a yearly gel shot and am good to go!!

Horrific experience!!

[La lamy]

Here is a link to one very similar to mine:
Amazon.com (https://www.amazon.com/DonJoy-11-1441-2-ARMOR-FP-ACL/dp/B00VS40R64/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=1345802808222222&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DT8t1amOTy2VsBD2QGPfwsQhv75wI46oQ SB-hdlw_8ijVzzuKHIU3So8gK6ka8tQ1et1ZqQuOQjUzNVkEUEBjt xjC0zEUtwR0k8rygh06IdToPG0R_JSihIhkLMapeZh1KK4nPI7 TRF9LK-wV9UjiAaMKRyybHTwpcfkgAeWlsHqA1VRVmE1IahGTJCBk1I23 f57dNfNY2Hu34Tb3MgsB3t3cBmyqwaWft0lcZoCEPpXo_SszMo DPf93WSz7rGcOVfh8qvI-QBTJyOhoAOy_UD6l209Ta7J4VN9VgGtHsaomkPjAxY_wRvwY13 ALcfOnyqNgawWKG1FtHRfnq0MR1IoBwULs3a4tsQJQo9vfnBI. r4gj7_rhRy3LrHExGhlfoRlFqtddcE6f65qcoKoYa9M&dib_tag=se&hvadid=84112997991137&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=72708&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-84113044445419%3Aloc-190&hydadcr=8281_13546161&keywords=donjoy+knee+brace&mcid=8084f68586b536cf818f6ea50badcef8&msclkid=76adae0fe1c710c2dd19c9ab23419856&qid=1738851054&refinements=p_123%3A2906&rnid=85457740011&s=hpc&sr=1-1)

Here is the DonJoy site, and one very similar to what I have:
A22 Titanium Custom Knee Brace by DonJoy (https://www.donjoystore.com/donjoy-a22-titanium-custom-knee-brace)

And this is the exact model I have:
Buy DonJoy OA Nano Knee Brace | Unloader Knee Brace Support (https://www.rehab-store.com/p-donjoy-oa-nano-knee-brace.html)

WHOA The price is UNBELIEVABLE!!! I guess it's worth it if you can save yourself surgery.

[Skelly]

I had my knee replaced 5 weeks ago. I’m walking well with no assistance.

Optomotion Orthopedics
407-355-3120. They have an office in Orlando and also Wildwood. You won’t be disappointed.

[Flyers999]

Ah, the clarity helps. Yes, if one isn't bone on bone there are some temporary pain relief options.

I was not bone-on-bone and still had knee replacement surgery. It's about pain people not about xrays.

Had mine six years ago and it's one of the best decisions I ever made. Dr Duke from the orthopedic institute who has since retired, unfortunately. He did a cementless which can be done on patients with healthier bones, who are usually younger. Ask you doc about that. Also, ask them how they measure and decide which size new knee. Your new knee must be the right size and must be put in the right position.

One out of five patients are not happy with their new knee. Even the world's best surgeons have to throw up their hands and say "it happens. " Good luck.

[Aces4]

I was not bone-on-bone and still had knee replacement surgery. It's about pain people not about xrays.

Had mine six years ago and it's one of the best decisions I ever made. Dr Duke from the orthopedic institute who has since retired, unfortunately. He did a cementless which can be done on patients with healthier bones, who are usually younger. Ask you doc about that. Also, ask them how they measure and decide which size new knee. Your new knee must be the right size and must be put in the right position.

One out of five patients are not happy with their new knee. Even the world's best surgeons have to throw up their hands and say "it happens. " Good luck.

I totally agree it's about the pain and it's also about the age. The older one gets as the surgery is postponed, the slower the recovery. Our bodies don't repair themselves in older age as they did in their 20's.

But some are so fearful of surgery and that has to be taken into consideration. They can't bear the thought of recovery pain and that colors their choice of treatment.

To each their own.