Daniel Reade

I first realized something was wrong when I began losing my balance and noticed my left knee was visibly bowing outward. Over time, the discomfort increased, affecting my daily life. After doing considerable research, I learned that although I live on Long Island, the best place for orthopedic care was Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). I chose Dr. Vigdorchik, and soon discovered—through multiple firsthand accounts—that others who had undergone total knee replacements or hip replacements with him shared overwhelmingly positive experiences.

From the very beginning, Dr. Vigdorchik treated me like family. He is personable, sincere, and above all, extraordinarily talented and capable - I would even say gifted. At my initial visit, Dr. Vigdorchik and Nikki, the practice PA, sat with me and carefully explained why I was a candidate for a total knee replacement and what I could expect from the surgery. They explained that my leg would be completely straight as a result, which was reassuring and encouraging.

I then scheduled my testing and surgery date with Lisa, the practice manager. Lisa truly gets things done, and like Dr. Vigdorchik and Nikki, she is wonderful, efficient, and deeply caring.

On February 2, I underwent surgery. From the moment I arrived early that morning, the entire HSS staff was outstanding - starting with those who greeted me and helped initiate the process. It was evident that many HSS employees travel significant distances to be part of this special team, and it shows in the pride they take in their work. Dr. Vigdorchik, the anesthesiologist, surgical nurses, and other team members all saw me in pre-op. I had already prepared through the online surgical journey videos and reading materials, but they still reviewed everything with me to ensure I felt fully informed and comfortable.

The surgery took approximately one hour and went perfectly. Dr. Vigdorchik personally contacted my wife afterward to let her know everything had gone well. I was walking about three hours after surgery, thanks to effective nerve blocks, and experienced no pain. Due to other health issues, I stayed overnight. Throughout my stay, nurses, aides, technicians, and nurse managers checked in on me regularly, providing exceptional care. I was discharged the following morning in a smooth, efficient, and well-organized manner.

My recovery at home went remarkably well. The recommended ice wrap was fantastic and kept swelling to a minimum. I only needed prescription pain medication for about 36 hours, relying on Tylenol afterward. It truly felt miraculous. I had two virtual physical therapy visits initially and removed the incision bandage one week after surgery. The incision healed beautifully, with no drainage, and the surgical glue worked perfectly.

I then began in-person physical therapy at Ivy Rehab in Wantagh, an HSS-approved facility. My progress continued steadily—I was driving within three weeks, first walking with a cane and then without one. At my six-week follow-up appointment, Dr. Vigdorchik and Nikki confirmed that I was doing very well. Dr. Vigdorchik told me I wouldn’t need to see him again unless I wanted to—and encouraged me to “go live your best life.”

I was also cleared to travel on a planned family vacation to South America at eight weeks post-surgery. Hearing that confirmed what I was already feeling - that my recovery was on track. During that trip, I was able to fully enjoy Colombia’s famous Chicamocha Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon. I walked extensively, navigated steps and ramps, rode a cable car across and down into the canyon, and truly enjoyed life.

Now, I look forward to playing actively with my young grandchildren, and I have Dr. Vigdorchik and his team - along with everyone at HSS and Ivy Rehab - to thank for their invaluable roles in my journey. I cannot adequately describe in words how incredible my experience was, but I’ve done my best. If you are in need of this level of care, don’t hesitate—life is simply too short.