James D. Capozzi, MD

From a young age, I was intrigued by biology and the life sciences. This passion grew stronger as I entered my teenage years and ultimately prompted me to pursue a career as an orthopedic surgeon. Today, I am excited to see firsthand how surgery changes my patients’ lives and enables them to return to the things they love most in life, such as dancing with their loved ones.

I see many patients who have arthritis of the hips or knees, which often prohibits them from walking long distances or performing daily activities without significant pain. Depending on each person’s individual diagnosis and symptoms, I design a treatment plan tailored to each person’s needs. For some patients, I perform hip and knee replacement surgery using minimally invasive techniques. For others, I can offer them nonsurgical treatment options.

I am especially proud of our Comprehensive Joint Replacement Program, which encourages patients to take an active role in their care. In addition to attending a preoperative joint education class, patients receive a home visit so experts can assess their living situation and help them return home safely after surgery. All patients work with multiple specialists, including an orthopedic nurse coordinator who follows each person from preoperative assessment until weeks after discharge. Every patient is treated with the utmost compassion and receives expert care.

As the former chairman of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons’ Ethics Committee and a member of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, I keep patient welfare at the forefront of my mind. Additionally, I am actively involved in clinical research studies involving medications, treatment options, medical devices, and clinical pathways.