OrthoProcedures

Top Knee Replacement Surgeons in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Rankings 8 surgeons • 564 verified Medicare procedures Public CMS Medicare data

Rankings reflect Medicare procedure volume, one factor among many. Volume does not measure quality of care.

Discover Santa Barbara's leading knee replacement surgeons ranked by verified Medicare procedure volume. Our comprehensive analysis covers 8 specialists performing knee replacement procedures in Santa Barbara, California.

Other Procedures in Santa Barbara

Hip Replacement Santa Barbara Knee Replacement Santa Barbara Shoulder Replacement Santa Barbara
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8
Surgeons
564
Verified Medicare procedures
157
Most by one surgeon
71
Average per surgeon
Knee replacement recovery kit Ice machines, mobility aids, bathroom safety, all under $50
1

William R Gallivan, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 157 verified Medicare cases
2

Bryan C Emmerson, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 101 verified Medicare cases
3

Christopher E Birch, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 88 verified Medicare cases
4

Graham R Hurvitz, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 86 verified Medicare cases
5

James C Zmolek, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 53 verified Medicare cases
6

Daniel F Craviotto, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 39 verified Medicare cases
7

Steven B Hollstien, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 26 verified Medicare cases
8

Chadler R Burgoyne, M.D.

Santa Barbara, CA
Knee Replacement: 14 verified Medicare cases

Knee Replacement in Santa Barbara: the local picture

Public CMS Medicare data verifies 564 knee replacement procedures performed by the 8 surgeons listed on this page, all serving the Santa Barbara area. Hospital affiliations among these surgeons most often include Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital and Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.

Compare more of California: All California surgeons Surgeons in Los Angeles Surgeons in San Diego Surgeons in Sacramento

Important Disclaimer

Rankings show Medicare procedure volume only, not quality of care or patient outcomes. Verify a surgeon's credentials with your state medical board, and talk with your own healthcare provider.

This data covers approximately 23% to 28% of all knee replacement procedures performed nationwide in 2024 (how this share is derived).

Frequently Asked Questions About Knee Replacement in Santa Barbara

How do I choose the best knee replacement surgeon in Santa Barbara?
Look for surgeons with high Medicare procedure volumes (200+ knee replacements annually), board certification in orthopedic surgery, experience with both total and partial knee replacement, and affiliations with quality hospitals. Our Santa Barbara rankings help you compare surgeons based on Medicare volume data.
What is the average cost of knee replacement in Santa Barbara, California?
Medicare covers 80% of knee replacement costs after deductible. Out-of-pocket costs typically range from $1,500-$4,000 depending on the facility, surgeon, and your Medicare plan. Santa Barbara surgeons who accept Medicare assignment help keep costs predictable.
How long does knee replacement recovery take?
Most patients begin walking with assistance the same day or day after surgery. Return to normal activities takes 6-12 weeks for most people. Physical therapy typically starts immediately and continues for 8-12 weeks. Santa Barbara surgeons often use rapid recovery protocols to speed healing.
What's the difference between total and partial knee replacement?
Total knee replacement replaces the entire knee joint surface, while partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement only replaces the damaged portion. Partial knee replacement has faster recovery but requires very specific damage patterns. Santa Barbara surgeons can evaluate which approach is best for your condition.
Does Medicare cover knee replacement surgery in Santa Barbara?
Yes, Medicare covers medically necessary knee replacement surgery, including traditional and robotic-assisted procedures. Coverage includes surgery, hospital stay, anesthesia, physical therapy, and durable medical equipment. You pay 20% coinsurance after your Part B deductible. All Santa Barbara ranked surgeons accept Medicare.

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