General Info

Francis Gonzales, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in adult hip and knee joint replacement surgery. Dr. Gonzales is fellowship-trained in direct anterior hip replacement, which is a muscle-sparing approach that allows for accelerated recovery. He has earned national recognition for his expertise with this less invasive technique and trains surgeons around the country on this approach. In total knee replacement, Dr. Gonzales uses leading-edge computer navigation technology that has been shown to improve accuracy in implant placement, which can enable a more natural feeling knee and longer lasting implant. He was the first to use iASSIST computer navigation in the U.S. leading to a study demonstrating improved precision in restoring leg alignment compared standard instruments used in knee replacement surgery. Dr. Gonzales also has advanced training and experience in complex deformities and hip and knee conditions requiring revision surgery. Dr. Gonzales earned his medical degree from Georgetown University. He performed orthopedic surgery training at St Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, an academic affiliate of Columbia University in New York. Dr. Gonzales completed adult hip and knee joint reconstruction fellowship at Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic in Alexandria, VA. Dr. Gonzales was born in Pittsburgh and grew up in Orange County, CA. His inspiration to pursue a life in medicine stems from his mother and father, who are both physicians. Dr. Gonzales especially enjoys seeing his patients return to an active lifestyle."I believe a successful joint replacement starts with listening and educating the patient, then making decisions as a team that are unique to each person. Patient care begins at the first office visit, continues through the hospital stay to a full recovery at home, all the way to a renewed active lifestyle."When not practicing medicine, Dr. Gonzales spends his time with his wife and daughter. He also enjoys running, golf, and playing basketball.UC San Diego Health LinksFor more information, see http://health.ucsd.edu/specialties/surgery/ortho/Pages/default.aspx. For more information, see http://sportsmedicine.ucsd.edu.