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The practice of orthopaedic surgery is constantly evolving due to changes in technology, economic and regulatory factors. My approach to patient care involves keeping up with the latest advances and at the same time not ignoring the art of caring. A majority of my practice consists of treatment of arthritis. This includes joint replacement of the hips, knees and shoulders. I believe in a thorough discussion about the diagnosis and treatment options with the patient/family. This helps in making good decisions and helps recovery after surgery. Newer techniques and implants such as minimally invasive surgery, gender knee, hip resurfacing and computer navigation are used when indicated. Custom knee implants including partial and total knee replacements are now available and can be used for the appropriate patients. In 2012, there will be continued emphasis on improving the entire joint replacement experience, starting with the preoperative visit to the hospital admission to the postoperative rehabilitation. Lessons learned from about 300 hip and knee replacements in 2011 will be incorporated in the planning and execution of these procedures. Minimally invasive techniques for both hip and knee replacement have been refined and advanced. As far as possible, the muscle sparing MIS approach is used for knee replacement and anterior MIS approach is used for hip replacement. Also, bone preserving techniques such as hip resurfacing and partial knee replacement are gaining in favor. Shoulder replacements are also advancing in techniques and materials. In short, there have been significant advances in joint replacement that allow faster recovery and improve long term outcomes. Complex hip and knee operations including revision or redo operations are also increasing in number. These are all managed effectively due to good support from hospital staff, physical therapists, implant manufacturers and rehabilitation centers. Feedback from patients is welcomed and helps everyone involved.

Dr Hernandez is most interested in rapid recovery surgery, and when appropriate, uses robotics and the outpatient ASC to get patients comfortably home the same day.

"Orthopedics allows me the opportunity to restore our patients' happiness by improving their quality of life through each interaction," he says