Persistent knee pain can make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or exercising increasingly difficult. If non-surgical treatments have not provided lasting relief, consulting an experienced orthopedic specialist may be the next step. This guide highlights several highly regarded knee surgeons in Maryland and offers practical advice for choosing the right provider. Not every orthopedic surgeon specialises in the same conditions or procedures. When researching your options, it is helpful to consider several important qualifications.
Choosing the Right Knee Specialist
Look for surgeons who:
- Are board-certified in orthopaedic surgery
- Have fellowship training in areas such as sports medicine or joint replacement
- Perform knee procedures regularly
- Practise at established hospitals or orthopaedic centres
- Have positive patient experiences and a strong professional reputation
Selecting a surgeon whose expertise matches your specific knee condition can help you make a more informed healthcare decision.
Five Well-Regarded Knee Specialists in Maryland
Maryland is home to several respected orthopedic surgeons who specialise in treating arthritis, sports injuries, and complex knee conditions.
Dr. Ronald E. Delanois – Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics
Based in Baltimore, Dr. Ronald Delanois focuses on joint preservation and knee replacement surgery. His practice includes modern surgical techniques designed to improve precision while supporting patient recovery. He has extensive experience treating individuals with advanced arthritis and other complex knee disorders.
Dr. Harpal Singh Khanuja – Johns Hopkins Medicine
Dr. Harpal Khanuja specialises in adult hip and knee reconstruction, including both primary and revision joint replacement procedures. His work combines clinical experience with ongoing research aimed at improving long-term outcomes for patients undergoing joint replacement surgery.
Dr. Craig Bennett – University of Maryland Medical System
Patients with sports-related knee injuries often seek care from Dr. Craig Bennett. His expertise includes minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures, ligament reconstruction, cartilage restoration, and treatment of meniscus injuries. His goal is to help patients safely return to normal activity whenever possible.
Dr. Marc Hungerford – Mercy Medical Center
Dr. Marc Hungerford has extensive experience performing knee replacement procedures and is recognised for incorporating advanced surgical technologies into patient care. He also treats individuals who may benefit from partial knee replacement when damage is limited to one section of the joint.
Dr. Tariq Nayfeh – MedStar Orthopaedic Institute
Dr. Tariq Nayfeh focuses on adult reconstructive surgery, including total and partial knee replacement. His treatment approach emphasises personalised care plans, patient education, and rehabilitation strategies designed to support recovery after surgery.
Common Knee Procedures
The most appropriate treatment depends on the cause and severity of your knee condition. After evaluating your symptoms and imaging results, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend one of several procedures.
Total Knee Replacement
This procedure replaces the damaged surfaces of the knee joint with artificial components. It is most commonly recommended for patients with severe arthritis who continue to experience pain despite conservative treatment.
Partial Knee Replacement
When arthritis affects only one portion of the knee, replacing only the damaged section may be an option. This procedure preserves more of the natural joint and may be suitable for carefully selected patients.
Knee Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions using a tiny camera and specialised instruments. It is commonly used to repair torn cartilage, reconstruct ligaments, or address other internal knee problems.
Preparing for Your Consultation
Before meeting with an orthopedic surgeon, gather any previous medical records, imaging studies, or reports related to your knee condition.
During your appointment, consider asking questions such as:
- What treatment options are available?
- Is surgery necessary, or are non-surgical treatments still appropriate?
- What are the expected benefits and potential risks?
- How long is the recovery process?
- What type of rehabilitation will be required?
Open communication helps ensure you understand your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a knee surgeon?
Referral requirements depend on your healthcare provider and insurance plan. Some insurance policies require a referral from your primary care physician, while others allow you to schedule directly with a specialist.
Is robotic-assisted knee surgery covered by insurance?
Many insurance providers cover robotic-assisted knee replacement when the procedure is considered medically necessary. Coverage varies between plans, so it is important to confirm your benefits before scheduling surgery.
How long does recovery usually take?
Recovery differs from person to person and depends on the type of procedure performed. Many patients resume light daily activities within several weeks, while complete recovery and rehabilitation may take several months.
Can every knee problem be treated with surgery?
No. Orthopedic specialists typically recommend non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medication, injections, or lifestyle modifications before considering surgery. An operation is generally advised only when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief.