Knee
Dr. George Nicola, MD
Dr. George Nicola is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon practicing in Caldwell, Idaho. A Medicare provider since 2005, Dr. Nicola has performed 52 Medicare-verified knee replacements, ranking #13 in Idaho.
In Idaho, Dr. Nicola performs above average in knee (52 vs 39 avg).
Dr. Nicola's Medicare data shows a focused knee replacement practice with 52 verified procedures. Surgeons who concentrate on a single procedure type often develop deep procedural expertise, though total practice volume may include additional procedures not captured in Medicare fee-for-service data.
Caldwell is home to 3 orthopedic surgeons in the current Medicare dataset. Patients in the Caldwell area can compare surgeon volume and procedure specialization to find the right fit for their joint replacement needs.
Dr. Nicola's Medicare record spans 11 years from 2013 through 2023. Procedure volume has remained consistent during that period, ranging from 45 to 83 procedures per year, reflecting a steady joint replacement practice.
Among 6,720 knee replacement surgeons tracked nationally, Dr. Nicola's 52 verified procedures is near the national average of 45.
Verified Medicare Cases
How is this estimated?
Medicare Part B fee-for-service claims represent approximately 33–37% of all joint replacements performed nationally (source: CMS data, AJRR). This range estimates the surgeon's total practice volume across all payers. The verified Medicare count above is the definitive, audited figure.
How Dr. Nicola Compares
Procedure volume compared to the Idaho state average.
Contact & Location
Caldwell, ID 83605
Verified Case Volume Trends (2013-Current)
Volume Trend Analysis
Dr. Nicola's procedure volume has been consistent across 11 years of Medicare data, ranging from 45 to 83 procedures per year. This stability suggests a well-established joint replacement practice.
Patient Resources: Preparing for Knee Replacement
If you are considering knee replacement surgery, these evidence-based guides can help you prepare and recover:
An overview of current surgical approaches including robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques, implant options, and expected outcomes.
Prehabilitation: Preparing Your Body for SurgeryEvidence-based exercises and lifestyle adjustments that can improve surgical outcomes and speed recovery when started weeks before your procedure.
Home Safety: Creating Your Recovery SanctuaryRoom-by-room modifications, equipment recommendations, and fall-prevention strategies to prepare your home for a safe post-surgical recovery.
Medicare Bundled Payment Programs for Joint ReplacementHow bundled payment models affect your joint replacement costs and care coordination, and what it means for hospital and surgeon selection.
Knee Replacement Recovery Overview
Recovery timelines vary by patient, but here is a general overview of what to expect after knee replacement surgery:
Individual recovery varies based on overall health, age, and adherence to physical therapy. View full knee replacement recovery guide and product recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions About Dr. Nicola
How does Dr. Nicola's procedure volume compare to other Idaho surgeons?
Dr. Nicola has performed 52 Medicare-verified joint replacement procedures. This is in line with the Idaho average of 57 procedures per surgeon. Dr. Nicola ranks #28 out of 69 orthopedic surgeons in Idaho.
What types of joint replacement does Dr. Nicola perform?
Dr. Nicola's reported Medicare volume is focused on knee replacement, with 52 verified procedures. Some surgeons choose to concentrate on a single joint type to build deep procedural expertise.
How experienced is Dr. Nicola with knee replacement surgery?
Dr. Nicola ranks #13 in Idaho for knee replacement with 52 Medicare-verified procedures. This high ranking among 69 state surgeons indicates significant experience with this specific procedure.
Are there other orthopedic surgeons near Dr. Nicola in Caldwell?
Yes. There are 3 orthopedic surgeons in Caldwell in the current Medicare dataset. Patients can compare procedure volumes and specializations to choose the surgeon who best fits their needs. Use the state page to view all Idaho surgeons.
What does the Medicare data for Dr. Nicola represent?
The procedure counts shown are based on the most recent Medicare Part B fee-for-service claims data, published by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This captures approximately 33–37% of all joint replacements performed nationally. Dr. Nicola's total practice volume — including private insurance and Medicare Advantage patients — is likely higher than the 52 procedures shown here.
Has Dr. Nicola's procedure volume changed over time?
Dr. Nicola's procedure volume has been relatively stable over 11 years of Medicare data, ranging from 45 to 83 procedures per year between 2013 and 2023. Consistent volume over multiple years reflects a steady joint replacement practice.
How does Dr. Nicola compare to other orthopedic surgeons in Caldwell?
Among the 3 orthopedic surgeons in Caldwell, Dr. Nicola ranks #2 by total Medicare procedure volume. Dr. Nicola is among the highest-volume surgeons in Caldwell.
Other Orthopedic Surgeons in Caldwell, Idaho
Dr. Nicola's 52 Medicare procedures are below the Caldwell average of 53. The table below compares verified procedure volumes for orthopedic surgeons practicing in Caldwell.
| Surgeon | Procedures | Specialties |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Michael Daines | 64 | Hip, Knee, Shoulder |
| Dr. John Smith | 44 | Hip, Knee |
Patient Reviews & Ratings
OrthoProcedures.com focuses on verified Medicare procedure data. For patient reviews, ratings, and appointment scheduling, visit these trusted platforms:
These links lead to third-party websites. OrthoProcedures.com is not affiliated with these platforms and cannot verify the accuracy of reviews.