Spine + Joint Institute
At the Bozeman Health Spine + Joint Institute (SJI), your health and well-being are our top priorities. Our experienced team focuses on hip, knee, and shoulder joint replacements as well as spine surgery, delivering expert, compassionate care. We’re proud to be Montana’s first certified Orthopedic and Spine Center of Excellence, a distinction earned through years of refining our approach to prioritize your safety. With the latest surgical advancements and a strong commitment to quality, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every stage of your journey.
Get Back to What You Love
What sets SJI apart is the comprehensive care process we’ve developed for our patients. It’s built to optimize your health, educate you on what to expect before, during, and after surgery, and ensure compassionate follow-up throughout your recovery. This approach leads to better outcomes, fewer readmissions, and more successful recoveries.
Your Joint Replacement Journey Starts Here
Our Orthopedic Partners
Bridger Orthopedic
Joint Replacement & Spine Surgery Booklets
SJI Surgeons & Procedures
Martin Gelbke, MD
Scott Curry, MD
Timothy O'Brien, MD
Request Appointment at Bridger
Request Appointment at Alpine
Mark Deibert, MD
Martin Gelbke, MD
Timothy O'Brien, MD
Scott Curry, MD
Brandon Beamer
MD
Justin Schwartzenberger
MD
Peter Kelleher
MD
Richard Vinglas
MD
Timothy O'Brien
MD
Ben Smith, DO
Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center
Spine & Joint Procedures
Hip Replacement
If hip pain limits your mobility and affects your quality of life, hip replacement surgery may be an option. This procedure, also known as total hip arthroplasty, replaces a damaged hip joint with an artificial implant, helping to relieve pain and restore movement. It is often recommended for individuals with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures.
How Hip Replacement Works
During surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with an artificial implant, which consists of:
- A metal socket fitted into the hip joint.
- A metal stem placed inside the thigh bone.
- A ceramic or metal ball that moves within the joint.
Recovery and Benefits
Rehabilitation includes physical therapy, pain management, and strengthening exercises to help restore mobility. Many patients experience reduced pain, improved joint function, and a better quality of life after surgery.
Knee Replacement
Chronic knee pain can make everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, and even standing difficult. Total knee replacement surgery, or total knee arthroplasty, replaces a damaged knee joint with a durable prosthetic, relieving pain and restoring function. This procedure is commonly performed for individuals with severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis.
What Happens During Surgery?
The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) and replaces them with metal implants. A plastic spacer is inserted between these metal components to provide smooth movement. In some cases, the kneecap (patella) is also resurfaced or replaced.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Recovery includes a combination of physical therapy, gradual activity increases, and pain management. Patients often experience less pain, improved knee stability, and enhanced mobility. Our goal is for you to return to daily activities with greater ease.
Shoulder Replacement
When shoulder pain and limited mobility interfere with your ability to perform daily activities, total shoulder replacement surgery may be a solution. Also known as total shoulder arthroplasty, this procedure replaces the damaged joint with an artificial implant, restoring movement and reducing discomfort. It is commonly recommended for arthritis, severe fractures, and rotator cuff injuries.
How Shoulder Replacement Works
During surgery, the humeral head (upper arm bone) and glenoid (shoulder socket) are replaced with artificial components:
- A metal ball attached to the humeral stem
- A plastic socket implanted into the shoulder joint
The Road to Recovery
Post-surgery rehabilitation includes physical therapy and guided exercises to restore strength and mobility. Patients often experience reduced pain, increased shoulder stability, and improved ability to perform daily tasks.
Spine Surgery
Back and neck pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to work, move, and enjoy life. If conservative treatments have not provided relief, spine surgery may be an option. This procedure is tailored to the patient’s specific condition. It is designed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, correct instability, and reduce pain.
Types of Spine Surgery
- Discectomy: Removes part or all of the herniated disc that is pressing on the spinal cord or nerves.
- Laminectomy: Removes a portion of the vertebra (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
- Spinal Fusion: Permanently connects two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
Your Recovery Journey
Post-surgical rehabilitation focuses on physical therapy, strengthening exercises, and gradual activity increases. Successful outcomes often include reduced pain, improved spinal stability, and enhanced mobility.
Pre-Anesthesia Clinic - Preparing for Surgery
Once your total joint or spine surgery has been scheduled, you will meet with the Pre-Anesthesia Clinic. The Pre-Anesthesia clinic focuses on optimizing your health prior to your surgery to improve your surgical outcomes, reduce the risk of complications or readmission, and help you return to your normal activities faster. Health conditions like unmanaged diabetes (high A1C), uncontrolled high blood pressure, or untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of serious complications—such as poor wound healing, heart issues, breathing problems under anesthesia, and longer recovery times.
At your Pre-Anesthesia Clinic visit, our team will work closely with you to identify and stabilize any health concerns. By addressing these issues in advance, we can help ensure a safer surgery, a smoother anesthesia experience, and a quicker, healthier recovery.
1) Medical History Review
2) Scheduling Your Appointment
Once we have the records we need, we will call you to schedule your in-person appointment. Most appointments last about 90 minutes, but the exact time may vary depending on your health history and the surgery you’re having.
3) Virtual Appointments
We prefer in-person appointments for most patients. If you are a candidate, you may be able to have a virtual (telehealth) visit instead of coming in person. This will depend on your specific medical conditions and the type of surgery you’re planning.
Nurse Navigation – Support Every Step of the Way
Our Nurse Navigators are here to ensure your surgery journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible. They will contact you to schedule your Pre-Surgery class and will serve as your personal point of contact for any questions or concerns—before and after your procedure.
You can reach our Nurse Navigators at:
Pre-Surgery Class
During the class, you’ll learn:
- How to get your home ready for your return
- What to expect before, during, and after surgery
- How to support your own recovery and healing
Class Options:
You can choose the format that works best for you:
- In-person
- Live virtual session
- Pre-recorded video
As part of your surgical care, your surgeon requires you to attend a free, one-hour pre-surgery class. This class is led by one of our Nurse Navigators and is designed to help you feel confident and well-prepared for your upcoming procedure. We want you to be an informed and active participant in your care, and this class is an important step in that process.
During the class, you’ll learn:
- How to get your home ready for your return
- What to expect before, during, and after surgery
- How to support your own recovery and healing
Class Options:
You can choose the format that works best for you:
- In-person
- Live virtual session
- Pre-recorded video
As part of your surgical care, your surgeon requires you to attend a free, one-hour pre-surgery class. This class is led by one of our Nurse Navigators and is designed to help you feel confident and well-prepared for your upcoming procedure. We want you to be an informed and active participant in your care, and this class is an important step in that process.
During the class, you’ll learn:
- How to get your home ready for your return
- What to expect before, during, and after surgery
- How to support your own recovery and healing
Class Options:
You can choose the format that works best for you:
- In-person
- Live virtual session
- Pre-recorded video
Day of Surgery
You will be contacted by Bozeman Health one working day before surgery to inform you of your check in time. Check in times are based on patient’s specific medical needs, age and type of surgery. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your scheduled time, please call 406-414-1600. On the day of your surgery, you will come to Perioperative services.
Department access, park in Parking Lot F or G, enter through Entrance 8 and go to the second floor.
After your surgery, you’ll be taken to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), also known as the recovery room. Your time in the PACU will vary depending on how you respond to anesthesia and how well your pain is managed. While you’re there:
- Nurses will closely monitor your vital signs and overall recovery.
- Once you’re stable, you’ll either be admitted to a hospital room or, in some cases, discharged home the same day.
Spine + Joint Inpatient Unit
(Post-Op Care)
In November 2023, Bozeman Health Spine + Joint Institute proudly opened a new 18-bed orthopedic inpatient unit, expanding our commitment to specialized care for total joint and spine patients.
This dedicated unit features a team of nurses specially trained in orthopedic care and houses our nurse navigators to ensure seamless, personalized patient experiences. Patients also benefit from on-unit physical therapy services and a fully equipped rehabilitation gym—enhancing recovery through immediate and integrated therapy support.
(Click to enlarge)
Resources for Patients
Pre-Surgery Class
(Please complete the form below after watching the pre-recorded class below)
As part of your surgical care, your surgeon requires you to attend a free, one-hour pre-surgery class. This class is led by one of our Nurse Navigators and is designed to help you feel confident and well-prepared for your upcoming procedure. We want you to be an informed and active participant in your care, and this class is an important step in that process.
During the class, you’ll learn:
- How to get your home ready for your return
- What to expect before, during, and after surgery
- How to support your own recovery and healing
Class Options:
You can choose the format that works best for you:
- In-person
- Live virtual session
- Pre-recorded video
As part of your surgical care, your surgeon requires you to attend a free, one-hour pre-surgery class. This class is led by one of our Nurse Navigators and is designed to help you feel confident and well-prepared for your upcoming procedure. We want you to be an informed and active participant in your care, and this class is an important step in that process.
During the class, you’ll learn:
- How to get your home ready for your return
- What to expect before, during, and after surgery
- How to support your own recovery and healing
Class Options:
You can choose the format that works best for you:
- In-person
- Live virtual session
- Pre-recorded video
As part of your surgical care, your surgeon requires you to attend a free, one-hour pre-surgery class. This class is led by one of our Nurse Navigators and is designed to help you feel confident and well-prepared for your upcoming procedure. We want you to be an informed and active participant in your care, and this class is an important step in that process.
During the class, you’ll learn:
- How to get your home ready for your return
- What to expect before, during, and after surgery
- How to support your own recovery and healing
Class Options:
You can choose the format that works best for you:
- In-person
- Live virtual session
- Pre-recorded video
Video Library
What to Expect After Surgery
Healthy Breathing
Getting In and Out of a Car
Using a Front Wheeled Walker
Hip Mobility Exercises
Knee Mobility Exercises
Spine Surgery – The Logroll Technique
Mary Bridger's Recovery Story
Frequently Asked Questions
Before Surgery
Will my insurance cover my surgery?
Why do I need an appointment with the Pre-Anesthesia Clinic before surgery?
You will be asked to complete a pre-operative medical optimization with the Pre-Anesthesia Clinic (PAC) at Bozeman Health. The pre-surgical visit provides the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and nursing staff with important information that assists in the management of your health care.
How do I sign up for a Pre-Surgery Class?
You can call our Nurse Navigator at 406-414-5094 to sign up for an in-person or live virtual class.
If you would like to complete the class by watching a pre-recorded video, click back into the Pre-Surgery Class.
Do I need to bring my home medications to the hospital?
Do I need to bring my walker with me to the hospital?
If I use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, do I need to bring it to the hospital?
Can I eat the day before surgery?
When should I take my medicine the morning of surgery?
Can someone stay with me in the hospital before surgery?
After Surgery
Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
If I stay overnight in the hospital, when should my ride pick me up the day I am discharged?
Will my prescriptions be called into my pharmacy so they are ready to pick up?
Highland Park Pharmacy is proud to offer our Med to Bed program, a free and convenient delivery service for our surgical patients. You’ll have the option to have your discharge medications delivered directly to your hospital room – so there’s no need to make an extra stop at the pharmacy on your way home and you will have everything you need before your leave the hospital.
Prefer another pharmacy? No problem, we’re happy to send your prescriptions to the pharmacy of your choice.
Can I shower after surgery?
You will receive bathing instructions before leaving the hospital.
General guidelines are:
- Joint Replacement Surgery: You can shower after surgery, but your dressing and incision need to be covered. No tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools until your incision is healed.
- Spine Surgery: It depends on the type of skin closure used. You will receive instructions before you leave the hospital.
When can I drive?
There are several factors to be taken into account when resuming to drive. They include managing medications, which side of your body was operated on, and if your vehicle is a manual or automatic. Discuss this with your physical therapist and your surgeon.
General guidelines are:
- Left Leg Surgery: You may drive when you feel up to it and not taking opioid pain medications during the day, generally at least two weeks after surgery unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon.
- Right Leg Surgery: You may not drive for at least six weeks following your surgery or until you are instructed to do so by your surgeon.
- Spine Surgery: No driving for six weeks (due to sitting, twisting for seatbelt, etc.) or when taking prescribed pain medications. Please limit being a passenger to doctor’s appointments only.
How do I obtain a handicapping parking permit?
SJI Testimonial & Video Library
Frequently Asked Questions
Before Surgery
Will my insurance cover my surgery?
Why do I need an appointment with the Pre-Anesthesia Clinic before surgery?
You will be asked to complete a pre-operative medical optimization with the Pre-Anesthesia Clinic (PAC) at Bozeman Health. The pre-surgical visit provides the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and nursing staff with important information that assists in the management of your health care.
How do I sign up for a Pre-Surgery Class?
You can call our Nurse Navigator at 406-414-5094 to sign up for an in-person or live virtual class.
If you would like to complete the class by watching a pre-recorded video:
Do I need to bring my home medications to the hospital?
Do I need to bring my walker with me to the hospital?
If I use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, do I need to bring it to the hospital?
Can I eat the day before surgery?
When should I take my medicine the morning of surgery?
Can someone stay with me in the hospital before surgery?
After Surgery
Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
If I stay overnight in the hospital, when should my ride pick me up the day I am discharged?
Will my prescriptions be called into my pharmacy so they are ready to pick up?
Highland Park Pharmacy is proud to offer our Med to Bed program, a free and convenient delivery service for our surgical patients. You’ll have the option to have your discharge medications delivered directly to your hospital room – so there’s no need to make an extra stop at the pharmacy on your way home and you will have everything you need before your leave the hospital.
Prefer another pharmacy? No problem, we’re happy to send your prescriptions to the pharmacy of your choice.
Can I shower after surgery?
You will receive bathing instructions before leaving the hospital.
General guidelines are:
- Joint Replacement Surgery: You can shower after surgery, but your dressing and incision need to be covered. No tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools until your incision is healed.
- Spine Surgery: It depends on the type of skin closure used. You will receive instructions before you leave the hospital.
When can I drive?
There are several factors to be taken into account when resuming to drive. They include managing medications, which side of your body was operated on, and if your vehicle is a manual or automatic. Discuss this with your physical therapist and your surgeon.
General guidelines are:
- Left Leg Surgery: You may drive when you feel up to it and not taking opioid pain medications during the day, generally at least two weeks after surgery unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon.
- Right Leg Surgery: You may not drive for at least six weeks following your surgery or until you are instructed to do so by your surgeon.
- Spine Surgery: No driving for six weeks (due to sitting, twisting for seatbelt, etc.) or when taking prescribed pain medications. Please limit being a passenger to doctor’s appointments only.
