The Core Principle
Surgeons who perform more procedures deliver better outcomes. This is not a marketing claim; it is supported by three decades of peer-reviewed research covering millions of joint replacements.
- American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR): Among 4+ million procedures, high-volume surgeons recorded 63% fewer revision surgeries.
- Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery: High-volume surgeons had 60% lower infection rates and 28% lower pneumonia risk.
- Leapfrog Group: Recommends a minimum of 50 annual joint replacements per hospital program based on “three decades of research” linking experience to safety.
Volume Benchmarks to Watch
| Surgeon Experience | Findings |
|---|---|
| 0–25 procedures/year | Elevated revision, infection, and readmission rates |
| 25–49 procedures/year | Outcomes improve but remain below high-volume peers |
| 50+ procedures/year | 47% lower 90-day mortality and significantly fewer complications |
How to Use the Data
- Start with Volume: Identify surgeons performing 50+ Medicare procedures each year. Our state rankings make this visible in seconds.
- Layer Other Signals: Review board certification, hospital quality scores, infection control metrics, and insurance compatibility.
- Schedule Consultations: Meet two to three high-volume surgeons to evaluate bedside manner, communication style, and personalized recommendations.
Important Context
- Medicare Coverage: Our rankings reflect Medicare fee-for-service claims (approximately 19.5% of total U.S. joint replacements). Private insurance procedures may increase a surgeon’s true total.
- Complex Cases: For revisions or higher-risk patients, traveling to a regional high-volume surgeon can be worth the effort.
- Individual Fit: Volume is a powerful starting point, not the only decision factor. Partner with your primary care physician and consider your comfort level with each surgeon.
Dig Deeper
- Browse the medical evidence library
- Review the data audit process
- Use our surgeon search to filter by procedure and location
Selecting a high-volume surgeon dramatically improves the odds of a safe, successful recovery. Let the data guide the first step, then build the rest of your care team around the experience that aligns with your needs.