Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center Health News
Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center Health News

Get Back in Stride with
Knee and Hip Joint Replacement

Man's legs runningWhen your knees or hips hurt, you can get treatment close to home. Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center offers knee and hip surgery, with comprehensive pre- and postoperative care.

Small Incisions, Less Scarring

Paul Lifland, MD, orthopedic surgeon, brought almost 20 years of experience to Eagle Pass in January 2009, becoming the first full-time orthopedic surgeon dedicated to serving the community. Using advanced technology recently acquired by the hospital, Dr. Lifland performs knee and hip replacements using smaller incisions that result in minimal damage to tissue. This typically means less scarring and shorter hospital stays.

The hospital features two operating rooms dedicated to orthopedic procedures, and a core group of anesthesiologists, operating room nurses and technicians who are skilled in the nuances of these complex surgeries.

Coordinated Care, Physical Therapy

"Studies on orthopedic surgery show that the sooner you begin physical therapy, the better the results," Dr. Lifland says. Rehabilitation therapists visit patients in the recovery room to start this process within hours of surgery. They work closely with the anesthesiologists and recovery room nurses for pain control, to help the patient feel comfortable enough to move around.

After patients leave the hospital, the staff coordinates outpatient rehabilitation services and works closely with participative primary care physicians to manage pain and help prevent complications.

Paul Lifland, MD
Paul Lifland, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon
In addition to knee and hip replacement, Dr. Lifland treats these orthopedic issues:
  • Injuries caused by accidents or trauma, like dislocated broken bones and lacerated tendons
  • Pain due to arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other conditions caused by aging and wear and tear

"I'm delighted by the orthopedic program," Dr. Lifland says. "It's a testament to the support and enthusiasm of the hospital administration and staff, as well as the community's primary care physicians who have chosen to participate with us."

New Joint, New You

Please call 830-872-2710 for more information on orthopedic services.