Andrew J. Wodowski, MD

A: Dr. Wodowski is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in total joint replacement. He performs total hip replacement, anterior hip replacement, total knee replacement, CORI robotic-assisted knee replacement, same-day outpatient joint replacement, and revision hip and knee replacement. He sees patients at OrthoSouth's Briarcrest, Germantown, and Southaven locations.

A: CORI is a robotic-assisted surgical system for knee replacement. Before surgery, the system creates a personalized surgical plan based on the patient's anatomy. During the procedure, CORI provides real-time guidance to help Dr. Wodowski position and size the implant with greater precision than traditional manual techniques. Improved precision can contribute to better alignment, a more natural-feeling knee, and potentially longer implant life. Dr. Wodowski evaluates candidacy during the consultation.

A: Anterior hip replacement is a minimally invasive approach to total hip replacement in which the surgeon accesses the hip joint from the front (anterior) of the body rather than the side or back. This approach avoids cutting through the major hip muscles, which is associated with less post-operative pain, a faster return to walking, and fewer movement restrictions during recovery for appropriate candidates. Dr. Wodowski evaluates whether the anterior approach is suitable based on each patient's anatomy and health history.

A: Same-day outpatient joint replacement means the patient goes home the same day as hip or knee surgery with no overnight hospital stay. For appropriate candidates, same-day discharge can allow recovery in familiar surroundings and may reduce the risk of hospital-acquired complications. Eligibility depends on overall health, home support availability, and the specific procedure. Dr. Wodowski discusses candidacy during the evaluation.

A: Revision hip or knee replacement is surgery to replace or repair a previously implanted joint replacement that has failed, worn out, become loose, or caused ongoing pain. It is among the most complex procedures in orthopedic surgery and requires specialized training and experience. Dr. Wodowski completed his fellowship specifically in adult hip and knee reconstruction at the University of Utah, with focused exposure to both primary and revision joint replacement.

A: Patient optimization means addressing modifiable health factors — such as blood sugar control in diabetic patients, weight, nutritional status, and certain medications — before joint replacement surgery to reduce the risk of complications and improve outcomes. Dr. Wodowski has published research on this topic and incorporates optimization protocols into his pre-surgical planning for appropriate patients.

A: Most patients consider joint replacement when pain is significantly limiting daily life — difficulty walking, trouble with stairs, or waking at night from joint pain — and conservative treatments such as injections and physical therapy have not provided lasting relief. Dr. Wodowski performs a full evaluation including imaging and walks through all available treatment options before any surgical recommendation is made.

A: Dr. Wodowski sees patients at three OrthoSouth locations: Memphis - Briarcrest, Germantown, and Southaven, MS. To schedule an appointment, call 901.641.3000 or visit orthosouth.org.