Most people wait too long to get a joint replacement—and sometimes, they do it too early.

So how do you actually know when it’s the right time?

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I break down how I think about timing as a joint replacement surgeon and what I tell my own patients in clinic every day.

The truth is, there’s no perfect age and no perfect X-ray that tells you when it’s time for surgery. Instead, the decision comes down to a few key factors that can dramatically impact your outcome.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why X-rays don’t tell the whole story
• The 3 key factors that determine timing
• The most common mistakes patients make (waiting too long vs going too early)
• Why “you’re too young” isn’t always true
• What recovery really looks like—and why timing matters

If you’re dealing with knee or hip pain—or trying to decide whether surgery is the right next step—this episode will give you a clear framework to think about it.

👍 Follow for more straightforward, evidence-based insights on joint replacement
📌 Share this episode with someone considering knee or hip surgery

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I’m joined by Keith Connolly, MD, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement in Marquette, Michigan.

We cover a wide range of topics that matter most to patients considering joint replacement—from how to know when it’s time for surgery to what truly separates a good surgeon from a great one.

Dr. Connolly shares his unique journey into orthopedics, his approach to patient care, and his perspective on modern joint replacement techniques, including partial knee replacement, total knee replacement, and hip replacement.

🔑 What We Discuss:

• How long joint replacements really last• When it’s the right time to have surgery• What recovery actually looks like today• Partial knee vs total knee replacement — who is a candidate?• The importance of surgeon experience and volume• Common mistakes patients make after surgery• Pain management and minimizing narcotic use• Outpatient joint replacement and rapid recovery• Cemented vs cementless implants• Robotic vs manual surgery — does it matter?• When you can safely return to sports like golf, tennis, and skiing• The future of joint replacement and emerging innovations

🎯 Key Takeaways:

Modern joint replacement is evolving rapidly. Recovery is faster, techniques are more refined, and for many patients, these procedures can restore quality of life with durable, long-lasting results.

Perhaps most importantly, this episode highlights that choosing the right surgeon—and the right procedure for the right patient—matters more than any single technology.

If you’re considering hip or knee replacement, or just want clear, honest answers from experienced surgeons, this episode is for you.

👉 Follow The Joint Replacement Podcast for more expert insights on hip and knee replacement.

Partial knee replacement is one of the most effective—and most misunderstood—procedures in orthopedics.

In this episode of the Joint Replacement Podcast, Matthew Sloan takes a deep dive into what partial knee replacement actually is, who it’s for, and why getting it right matters so much.

Many patients ask: “Can I just replace the bad part of my knee?”
The answer is: sometimes—but only if you’re the right candidate.

In this episode, we break down:

• What a partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement really involves
• The three compartments of the knee and why arthritis often affects just one
• Who is a good candidate—and who is not
• Why patient selection is the most important factor for success
• How partial knee compares to total knee replacement
• Why precision and alignment are critical—and how robotics is changing the game

You’ll also learn:

• Why partial knees can feel more “natural” than total knees
• The biggest misconceptions about this procedure
• When a total knee replacement is actually the better option
• And how modern techniques are improving outcomes

The key takeaway:
Partial knee replacement isn’t a “smaller” version of a total knee—it’s a different operation for a specific problem.

When done in the right patient, with the right technique, it can provide excellent outcomes and faster recovery. But when used in the wrong situation, it can lead to early failure.

If you’re considering knee replacement—or just want to better understand your options—this episode gives you a clear, honest, and practical framework to make an informed decision.

🎧 Follow the podcast for more insights on joint replacement, recovery, and the latest in orthopedic technology.

Is robotic-assisted joint replacement actually better—and do you need it?

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan, orthopedic surgeon and Director of Robotics in Orthopedic Surgery, breaks down the role of robotics in modern joint replacement. This is one of the most common questions patients ask, and the answer is more nuanced than you might think.

Dr. Sloan starts by explaining the difference between traditional “manual” joint replacement and robotic-assisted techniques. While conventional surgery has excellent long-term outcomes, it relies on mechanical guides, 2D imaging, and intraoperative judgment. Robotics builds on this foundation by introducing preoperative 3D planning, real-time data, and enhanced precision during surgery.

The episode also covers the evolution from computer navigation systems—which provided measurements and feedback—to today’s robotic platforms that help guide implant positioning and execution of the surgical plan.

The discussion then breaks down how robotics applies to three key procedures:

Partial Knee Replacement (Unicompartmental Knee Replacement)
Robotics has had a major impact in this area due to the technical precision required. Dr. Sloan explains how robotic systems allow for dynamic ligament balancing, accurate bone resection, and improved implant positioning—all of which can contribute to a more natural-feeling knee and potentially better outcomes.

Total Knee Replacement
In total knee replacement, alignment and soft tissue balance are critical. Robotics allows surgeons to plan implant positioning in advance and make intraoperative adjustments based on real-time measurements of ligament tension. This shifts the approach from forcing the knee to match the implant to customizing the implant position to match the patient’s anatomy.

Total Hip Replacement
Hip replacement is already one of the most successful procedures in medicine, but robotics can improve precision in implant positioning. Dr. Sloan discusses how CT-based 3D modeling helps optimize cup orientation, restore leg length, and recreate native hip biomechanics—especially in patients with more complex anatomy.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Sloan emphasizes a key takeaway:
Robotics is a tool. It can improve precision, consistency, and planning—but it is not required for a successful joint replacement.

The most important factor in achieving a great outcome remains the experience, judgment, and technique of the surgeon.

If you’re considering hip or knee replacement and want a clear, patient-focused explanation of robotic-assisted surgery, this episode will give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

Follow the show for more expert insights on joint replacement, recovery, and surgical decision-making.

#HipReplacement #KneeReplacement #RoboticSurgery #Orthopedics #JointReplacement #PatientEducation

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, I’m joined by Joshua Rozell to break down a challenging case of robotic total hip replacement in a patient with severe bilateral hip dysplasia and congenital dislocation.

These are some of the most complex cases we treat in hip reconstruction, where anatomy is significantly altered and standard techniques may not apply. This discussion walks through both the preoperative planning and intraoperative decision-making required to safely and effectively restore hip function.

We cover:

• How to identify and reconstruct the true acetabulum in the setting of a pseudoacetabulum
• Managing significant leg length discrepancy and setting appropriate patient expectations
• When to consider a femoral shortening osteotomy to reduce tension on the sciatic nerve
• Strategies to minimize the risk of sciatic nerve injury during hip lengthening
• The role of robotic-assisted surgery in improving accuracy, visualization, and reproducibility
• Indications for acetabular augments and how they provide both primary fixation and long-term stability
• Step-by-step surgical workflow, including reaming, cup placement, augment positioning, and fixation techniques
• Use of fluoroscopy and intraoperative landmarks to avoid common pitfalls
• Implant selection decisions, including cemented vs cementless femoral components in complex anatomy

We also discuss how robotic planning allows surgeons to:
→ Precisely locate the native hip center
→ Optimize implant positioning and screw trajectories
→ Anticipate bone defects and plan reconstruction strategies ahead of time
→ Improve confidence when approaching highly abnormal anatomy

One of the most important themes in this case is patient communication. Restoring anatomy often requires intentional changes in leg length, and setting expectations preoperatively is critical to achieving a successful outcome.

Whether you're a patient trying to understand complex hip replacement surgery, a trainee learning advanced reconstruction techniques, or a surgeon interested in the evolving role of robotics—this episode provides a detailed, practical look at modern approaches to complex hip dysplasia reconstruction.

Follow for more episodes covering:
Hip and knee replacement, robotic surgery, surgical decision-making, and patient education from one of the highest-volume robotic joint replacement surgeons in New England.

#HipReplacement #Orthopedics #RoboticSurgery #HipDysplasia #JointReplacement #MedicalEducation

In this episode of the The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan sits down with Dr. Joshua Rozell, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Langone Brooklyn, Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Residency Associate Program Director, and a high-volume hip and knee replacement surgeon, for an in-depth conversation on modern joint replacement care.

They discuss Dr. Rozell’s journey into arthroplasty, what makes hip and knee replacement such a rewarding specialty, and the importance of surgical volume, precision, and continuous improvement in achieving great outcomes. The conversation also dives into key patient questions—including when it’s the right time for surgery, how long implants last, and what recovery really looks like.

You’ll also hear insights on:

• The role of robotics and cementless implants in modern joint replacement
• Realistic expectations for pain, recovery, and return to activity
• Common mistakes patients make after surgery
• The future of joint replacement, including smart implants and remote monitoring

Whether you’re a patient considering surgery or a clinician interested in the evolution of joint replacement, this episode offers practical, honest, and expert-driven insights to guide better decisions and outcomes.

If you’re considering a hip replacement, you probably have a lot of questions—and you’re not alone.

In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan breaks down the 10 most common questions patients ask before total hip replacement surgery. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already planning surgery, this episode will help you better understand what to expect and how to make informed decisions.

We cover everything from timing and candidacy to recovery and long-term outcomes, including:

• When is the right time to have a hip replacement?
• How do you know if you’re a good candidate?
• What types of implants are used and how long do they last?
• Anterior vs posterior approaches—what matters most?
• Is robotic-assisted hip replacement actually better?
• How painful is recovery, and how long does it take?
• When can you drive, walk normally, and return to activities?
• What activities are safe after surgery—and what should you avoid?
• What are the real risks, including dislocation and leg length differences?
• How long does a hip replacement last, especially for younger patients?

Dr. Sloan also shares practical insights from his experience as a high-volume robotic joint replacement surgeon, helping you understand not just the data—but what it means for you as a patient.

Hip replacement is one of the most successful surgeries in modern medicine, with the vast majority of implants lasting 20 years or more. But knowing when to proceed—and what to expect—can make all the difference in your outcome.

🎯 Whether you’re dealing with hip arthritis, considering surgery, or supporting a loved one through the process, this episode will give you clarity and confidence.

About the Host:
Matthew Sloan, MD is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement and serves as Director of Robotics in Orthopedic Surgery at Emerson Health in Concord, Massachusetts. He is one of the highest-volume robotic joint replacement surgeons in New England and focuses on helping patients return to active, pain-free lives.

Subscribe for more expert insights on joint replacement, recovery, and cutting-edge orthopedic care.

In the first full episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast with Matthew Sloan MD, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Matthew Sloan discusses the 10 most common questions patients ask before knee replacement surgery.

For many patients, deciding whether to undergo knee replacement is a major decision. Questions about timing, recovery, pain, robotic surgery, and long-term outcomes often come up during consultations. In this episode, Dr. Sloan walks through the key topics patients should understand before considering knee replacement.

The goal of this podcast is to help patients better understand hip and knee replacement surgery, modern technology used in joint replacement, and how to choose the right surgeon for their care.

• When is the right time to have a knee replacement?
• How successful is knee replacement surgery?
• How long does a knee replacement last?
• What is robotic knee replacement surgery?
• How painful is knee replacement surgery?
• How long does recovery take after knee replacement?
• Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
• Can knee replacement be done as outpatient surgery?
• What activities can I do after knee replacement?
• How do I choose the right knee replacement surgeon?

Dr. Sloan explains how surgeons determine whether a patient is a good candidate for surgery, what patients can realistically expect during recovery, and how modern techniques such as robotic-assisted knee replacement may improve precision and outcomes.

Knee replacement is one of the most successful procedures in modern medicine, with over 90% of implants still functioning well 15–20 years after surgery. However, understanding the timing of surgery and setting realistic expectations for recovery are critical to achieving a successful outcome.

This episode is designed to help patients feel more confident when discussing treatment options with their orthopedic surgeon and to better understand what the journey through knee replacement surgery may look like.

🎙 About the Podcast

The Joint Replacement Podcast with Matthew Sloan MD helps patients understand hip and knee replacement and the surgeons who perform it.

Each episode explores the science, technology, and decision-making behind modern joint replacement, with insights from orthopedic surgeons and other experts.

Topics include:

• Hip replacement surgery
• Knee replacement surgery
• Robotic joint replacement technology
• Recovery after joint replacement
• Choosing the right surgeon

Learn more about joint replacement education and resources:
https://thejointreplacementpodcast.com

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

Welcome to the first episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast with Matthew Sloan MD.In this introductory episode, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Matthew Sloan explains the purpose of the podcast and how it will help patients better understand modern hip and knee replacement surgery.Dr. Sloan is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, including robotic-assisted joint replacement. Through this podcast, he interviews leading surgeons and experts to discuss the science, technology, and decision-making behind joint replacement.This podcast is designed to help patients learn about:• Hip replacement surgery• Knee replacement surgery• Robotic-assisted joint replacement• Recovery after joint replacement• Choosing the right joint replacement surgeonIf you are considering joint replacement or want to better understand modern orthopedic surgery, this podcast will provide clear, expert insights.🎙 The Joint Replacement Podcast with Matthew Sloan MDHelping patients understand hip and knee replacement and the surgeons who perform it.🌐 Learn more:https://hipandkneerelief.com📍 Concord, Massachusetts⚠️ Medical DisclaimerThis video is for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional.