”Dr. Garrett is the epitome of a professional and caring physician. He is knowledgeable, personable and exactly the right kind of expert to see in difficult cases.
Aaron B.
About Dr. Jeffrey P. Garrett
Dr. Jeffrey P. Garrett is a board-certified physician in orthopaedic surgery who specializes in outpatient hip and knee replacements.
Utilizing advanced protocols and minimally-invasive surgical techniques, such as direct anterior approach for total hip replacement and robotically assisted total knee and partial knee replacement, patients are able to return home within hours of their surgery with improved function, less pain, and faster recovery.
He brings over a decade of diverse clinical experience and contribution to the advancement of orthopaedic education, through speaking and publishing research.
Dr. Garrett also has advanced training in orthopaedic trauma care working under Dr. Roy Sanders at Tampa General Hospital, and has served as a Clinical Faculty Member for orthopaedic trauma at the Atlanta Medical Center Orthopaedic Residency Program.
In addition to being a skilled surgeon, Dr. Garrett is also a skilled clinician who enjoys taking time with each patient, discussing their specific ailments and concerns. He believes that personalizing patient education leads to improved understanding, partnering, and optimization of care.
On August 17, 2021 I successfully completed a total knee replacement with robotic assistance. Thankfully we are the first ambulatory surgery center in the United States to have the new Velys™ robotic system.
About Total Joint Replacement
Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic or damaged joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic, or ceramic device called a prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint.
Hip and knee replacements are the most commonly performed joint replacements, but replacement surgery can be performed on other joints, as well, including the ankle, wrist, shoulder, and elbow.
When Is Total Joint Replacement Recommended?
Several conditions can cause joint pain and disability and lead patients to consider joint replacement surgery. In many cases, joint pain is caused by damage to the cartilage that lines the ends of the bones (articular cartilage)—either from arthritis, a fracture, or another condition. If nonsurgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, and activity modifications do not relieve your pain and disability, your doctor may recommend total joint replacement.
Preparing for Surgery
In the weeks before your surgery, your surgical team and primary care doctor will spend time preparing you for your upcoming procedure. For example, your primary care doctor may check your general health, and your surgeon may require several tests — such as blood tests and a cardiogram — to help plan your surgery. There are also many things you can do to prepare. Talk to your doctor and ask questions. Prepare yourself physically by eating right and exercising. Take steps to manage your first weeks at home by arranging for help and obtaining assistive items, such as a shower bench, handrails, or a long-handled reacher. By planning ahead, you can help ensure a smooth surgery and speedy recovery.
Surgical Procedure
Total joint replacement surgery takes about one hour. The procedure is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery center (Learn more about our surgery center by clicking here). During the surgery, the damaged cartilage and bone is removed from your joint and replaced with prosthetic components made of metal, plastic, and ceramic. The prosthesis mimics the shape and movement of a natural joint
Complications
Your doctor will explain the potential risks and complications of total joint replacement, including those related to the surgery itself and those that can occur over time after your surgery. Most complications can be treated successfully. Some of the more common complications of joint replacement surgery include infection, blood clots, nerve injury, and prosthesis problems like loosening or dislocation.
Recovery
Recovery and rehabilitation will be different for each person. In general, your doctor will encourage you to use your “new” joint shortly after your operation. Although it may be challenging at times, following your doctor’s instructions will speed your recovery. Most patients will experience some temporary pain in the replaced joint because the surrounding muscles are weak from inactivity, the body is adjusting to the new joint, and the tissues are healing. This pain should resolve in a few months. Exercise is an important part of the recovery process. Your doctor or physical therapist will provide you with specific exercises to help restore movement and strengthen the joint. If you have any questions about limitations on your activities after total joint replacement, please consult your doctor.
Long-Term Outcomes
The majority of patients are able to perform daily activities more easily after joint replacement surgery. Most people can expect their joint replacement to last for many years, providing them with an improved quality of life that includes less pain, along with improved motion and strength that would not have been possible otherwise.
Education and Training
- Medical Education, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University
- Residency, Orthopaedic Surgery, Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- NIH Research Fellowship, Orthopaedic Surgery, Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Fellowship, Orthopaedic Trauma, Tampa General Hospital
Certifications and Affiliations
- Board Certified, Orthopaedic Surgery
- Member, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Member, American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons
- Member, Orthopaedic Trauma Association
- Member, Georgia Orthopaedic Society
Hospital Privileges
- Northside Hospital Forsyth
- Northside Hospital Cherokee
- Advanced Center for Joint Surgery