Why This Top Surgeon Performs 1,000 Surgeries a Year

About this episode

What does it take to perform nearly 1,000 surgeries a year while keeping the patient experience at the center of everything? Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Michael Swank reveals how 32 years of specialization in hip and knee replacement shape his approach to surgical innovation, efficiency, and leadership. From eliminating unnecessary downtime to developing rapid-recovery protocols that help patients return home the same day, he challenges conventional healthcare practices. But after decades of building a successful practice, an unexpected ownership change forces a major career decision. Now, as he prepares to rebuild in a new market, he explores the power of specialization, the future of AI-powered robotic surgery, and what it truly means to leave a lasting legacy in medicine. Key Takeaways • The Power of Specialization: Why narrowing his practice to hip and knee replacements allows Dr. Swank to improve efficiency and focus on the entire patient experience. • Performing Nearly 1,000 Surgeries Annually: How strategic delegation, streamlined preparation, and optimized surgical workflows allow him to schedule 22 procedures across two days each week. • Rethinking Traditional Hospital Recove