MTS Clinicians Observe Total Joint Surgeries at Hoag Orthopedic Institute!

MTS clinicians Matthew Tjandra PT, DPT and Natalie Wek PT, DPT had a wonderful opportunity to learn from the best at Hoag Orthopedic Institute!

At MTS, we understand professional collaboration is key! Our intentional interactions with case managers, to caregivers, to surgeons is paramount in establishing a thorough understanding and a well-rounded approach to patient care.

This past month, two of our physical therapists were welcomed into the Operating Room by Dr. Barnett and his PA, Treanna Mather, and Dr. Scudday and his NP, Lindsey McCloskey, to observe Total Hip and Total Knee Replacement surgeries. 

Matthew Tjandra PT, DPT: 

“Watching these procedures firsthand was an invaluable experience that deepened my understanding of the surgical process, implant selection, and the anatomy involved in restoring joint function.

For the hip replacements, Dr. Barnett utilized the direct anterior approach, sparing the integrity of major muscles. Seeing this approach in action gave me a clearer perspective on why patients may experience quicker recovery times compared to other techniques. It was also eye-opening to watch how carefully implant positioning was verified, including symmetrical leg length checks.

The knee replacements highlighted the importance of precise alignment and the restoration of functional range of motion. Observing the process — from exposure and bone preparation to trial implants and final fixation — provided great insight into what patients go through before we meet them for home rehab.

What stood out most was the OR team’s seamless collaboration. From Dr. Barnett and Treanna to the nurses, surgical techs, and anesthesiologist, every member executed their role with precision and professionalism. The teamwork truly resembled a well-coordinated orchestra, with each person contributing to the best possible patient outcome.

Overall this experience reinforced the vital link between surgery and the post-op rehabilitation we do. Having seen the procedures firsthand will help me better educate our patients, set realistic expectations, and guide them through recovery with a more informed and empathetic approach. I’m very grateful to the MTS team for arranging this opportunity and for the chance to learn directly from Dr. Barnett and the HOI team!”

Natalie Wek PT, DPT: 

“I was able to observe 3 surgeries; 2 TKAs and one TKA revision. As a PT treating these cases daily, to be able to see the entire process from start to finish was so beneficial. I have more appreciation for the patient experience from both the mental and physical side of things and I think this will help me to guide and tailor my post-op treatments even more effectively.

Seeing the surgical technique first-hand really gave me a clearer understanding of why patients present the way they do post-op, and helped connect the dots between the procedure itself and the rehab process even further. One of the most interesting parts was being given the opportunity to handle pieces of excised meniscus and bone. Getting a hands-on visual of the actual tissues helped me to better understand the level of joint degeneration our patients experience prior to surgery and reinforced why the prehab and post-op rehab efforts can be challenging to start. 

I think this experience will aid in being able to help answer more niche questions about surgical details, improve expectations and educate patients on the “whys” behind certain symptoms, limitations or precautions. Overall this was a great experience and I am thankful to MTS and HOI for the opportunity!!” 

We are so grateful to Dr. Scudday’s and Dr. Barnett’s Operating Room Teams for inviting our MTS clinicians into their world!