Total joint hip replacement is now easier than ever By choosing Dr. Slattery to perform the direct anterior approach to total hip surgery, patients are more frequently finding themselves walking the same day as surgery. What makes the direct anterior approach to total hip surgery special? Unlike the traditional "posterior" method, which requires a surgeon to navigate through several large muscles at the back of the hip, approaching from the front (anterior) part of the hip spares muscles and can greatly decrease recovery time. In addition, the improved positioning of patients during the operation allows Dr. Slattery to x-ray hips during the surgery to ensure proper positioning and length of the artificial hip, something that can't be done with the traditional method. Gary Hockett, a recent patient of Dr. Slattery's, elected to undergo the anterior approach total hip procedure, and is a perfect example of how this surgery can change the course of lives. Mr. Hockett explained that he was walking the first day after surgery and stated "I feel great," as he was striding down the clinic hallways. He went on to mention that "I haven't taken a pain pill since the ninth day after surgery." At two weeks after his operation [...]

“Dr. Dujela is a world class outstanding provider, a true physician in every sense of the word. I could never say enough about his superlative expertise and amazing kindness to me throughout the whole process of healing my broken ankle. I am now almost back to normal and owe it all to him!” “I've known Dr Dujela for more than 10 years. He cared for me at his former clinic when I broke my ankle, and saved my friend's leg from amputation just a year or so ago, when it seemed impossible. I can't say enough good about Dr. Dujela. They just don't come any better than him!” “Dr. Dujela and staff are very nice and professional with a smile. You can tell they truly care about their patients and help you progress in your medical care and recovery after surgery. I would highly recommend Dr. Dujela and staff for their excellent care and follow up. Thank you.” “I believe that Dr. Slattery is an excellent surgeon and I am very confident that my knee will be at or close to 100% functional when I have completely healed.” “This was my first surgery, and Dr. Slattery ﴾and everyone else involved﴿ made me [...]

Dr Michael Dujela, a foot and ankle surgeon at Washington Orthopaedic Center in Centralia, has been reappointed as the National Chairman of the Education and Scientific Affairs Committee for the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the world's largest foot and ankle surgical organization. Representing over 7,400 surgeons around North America, this group develops and implements surgical education for advancement and refinement of techniques on a national and regional level. National level foot and ankle expertise is proudly offered at Washington Orthopaedic Center.

Where are you from? I grew up in Baleville, just outside Raymond, Washington and graduated from South Bend High School in 2012. Where do you go to school? I'm currently finishing up my degree in Sport Science from Washington State University by completing this internship, which the accumulation of everything I've learned during my four years in Pullman. I will also be graduating from the WSU Honors College this December when I give my thesis presentation, titled Effects of Exercise Supplements on Exercise Program Adherence. When did you discover you have an interest in health and wellness? Growing up in a small community allowed me to be involved in all types of sports. During high school my interest in physical activity grew and I decided I wanted movement to be part of my everyday life. I built on that by certifying as a personal trainer and working my way through school at the WSU recreation center for three years. I finally discovered my passion for medicine when I volunteered as a camp counselor at a Muscular Dystrophy Association camp. I've participated in camp for two years and now I can't get enough of learning about the possibilities medicine gives the people who [...]

Dr. Keith Birchard of Washington Orthopaedic Center recently completed his Board Certification Renewal with the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). This requires an ongoing process of training and education as exemplified by the Board’s “MOC” (Maintenance of Certification). According to the ABOS “...Those that have met the educational and organizational requirements necessary for certification through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery are distinguished orthopaedic surgeons who are active in patient care, education and research” In order to maintain certification, Dr. Birchard is required to complete 120 hours of pertinent continuing medical education, and undergo a stringent peer review process. Maintenance of the certification process must be performed every seven to ten years. Dr. Birchard is highly regarded in the Pacific Northwest and orthopedic community for his expertise in upper extremity surgery, general orthopaedic surgery, knee arthroscopy, total joint replacement, and fracture and trauma surgery - Click here to learn more about Dr. Keith Birchard. If you would like to learn more about the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery visit https://www.abos.org/

Dr. Keith Anderson of Washington Orthopaedic Center recently completed his Board Certification Renewal with the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). This requires an ongoing process of training and education as exemplified by the Board’s “MOC” (Maintenance of Certification). According to the ABOS “...Those that have met the educational and organizational requirements necessary for certification through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery are distinguished orthopaedic surgeons who are active in patient care, education and research” In order to maintain certification, Dr. Anderson is required to complete 120 hours of pertinent continuing medical education, and undergo a stringent peer review process. Maintenance of the certification process must be performed every seven to ten years. Dr. Anderson is well known in the Pacific Northwest and orthopedic community for his expertise in arthritis surgery, total knee and total hip replacements, hand surgery, sports medicine, and arthroscopic surgery. To learn more click here to visit his biography. If you would like to learn more about the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery visit www.abos.org

BIG congratulations to our own Dr. Michael Dujela, who was recognized by the Global Foot and Ankle Congress  for his commitment and contributions to the world of foot and ankle surgery. "The Global Foot and Ankle Congress is comprised of thought leaders in the field of foot and ankle surgery from around the globe. GFAC's mission is to promote an international exchange of scientific knowledge and experience in the field of foot and ankle pathology and treatment" Faculty was comprised of internationally recognized orthopedic and podiatric surgeons around the world.

Washington Orthopaedic Center is excited to announce that Dr. Dujela has officially become the newest WOC partner.  Dr. Dujela has been at WOC since July 2014 and has provided Lewis County with expert Foot & Ankle care since 2002. He is a frequent lecturer and instructor on foot and ankle surgery at medical conferences nationally.  In addition, he has served as faculty internationally at orthopedic surgery conferences and continues to teach surgical techniques to other physicians at various surgical skills courses.  Dr. Dujela is currently the National Chairman of the Education and Scientific Affairs Committee of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, which represents over 7000 surgeons around North America. WOC is thankful to have Dr. Dujela in this role and is excited for the continued expertise, patient care and professionalism that he has already contributed to WOC. To learn more about Dr. Dujela, please visit his biography page.

Curious what's new at Washington Orthopaedic Center? Check out our most recent newsletter for Spring 2016! Click the image below for viewing.  

The 1st quarter 2016 Washington Orthopaedic Center Employee Excellence (WOCEE) Award Winner is Susan Macy!  Susan was recognized for taking on many extra tasks, her willingness to assist in all areas and her excellent teamwork skills. Thank you for everything you do, Susan.