Michael Taft’s knees could no longer stand up to the severe pain he suffered over the years. Taft endured taxing physical labor as a structural ironworker. He also suffered multiple injuries in a motorcycle accident and had debilitating arthritis, all of which began to take a major toll on his well-being.

“My knees were so bad that I was reminded of them daily, sometimes hourly. For years it was even hard to sleep,” recalled the now 72-year-old Evanston resident.

Joint Decision
Seeking guidance from affiliated Illinois Bone and Joint Institute Orthopaedic Surgeon Alexander Gordon, MD, Taft’s best treatment option quickly became clear—knee replacement at NorthShore. He agreed to move forward with surgery one knee at a time, and get back on track with his full, active life including vigorous exercise and work on his dairy farm.

“After surgery, the relief was instant,” said Taft, who had his first knee replaced in 2016 and the second in 2017. “Dr. Gordon came highly recommended; everyone at NorthShore was wonderful. I received very good care.”

Dr. Gordon’s reconstruction expertise was especially important to Taft, whose knees were severely damaged by arthritis and bone deformity. “Correcting these big deformities with bone and soft tissue damage can be challenging,” Dr. Gordon explained.

Precision Boost
An early adopter of leading-edge techniques, Dr. Gordon used precision technology available at NorthShore Orthopaedic and Spine Institute for Taft’s two knee replacements. This advanced know-how helps surgeons improve patient outcomes by customizing an implant’s precise fit and function. NorthShore routinely participates in multisite studies of new orthopaedic technology, and Dr. Gordon has served as an investigator.

 “I appreciate NorthShore’s dedication to orthopaedics and giving us the tools and technology we need to optimize patient results,” noted Dr. Gordon, who values the collaborative team at the new Orthopaedic and Spine Institute where he performs many of his joint replacements.

“It’s very rewarding to help someone with Michael’s expectations. He’s a great guy with a high activity level. He was an excellent patient and very committed to the process,” added Dr. Gordon.

“I’m smiling from ear to ear,” Taft added. “It’s wonderful to have your body back!”