Michael McHugh, MD

About Michael McHugh, MD

Dr. Michael McHugh brings exceptional training and expertise to his orthopedic practice. He started his medical education at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, one of the nation’s premier institutions for orthopedic training and found his interest in joint replacement surgery while being mentored by Dr. John Callaghan. He further refined his skills during residency at the University of Michigan. Dr. McHugh’s training culminated with a fellowship at the world-renowned OrthoCarolina Hip and Knee Center, one of the busiest fellowship programs in the country. There he mastered advanced techniques in hip and knee replacement surgery while training with many of the most distinguished arthroplasty surgeons in the country.

Throughout his academic and clinical training, Dr. McHugh has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing orthopedic care through research. His involvement in clinical studies has resulted in multiple authored publications in respected medical journals and presentations at orthopaedic conferences across the country. This dedication to evidence-based practice ensures that his patients receive care that reflects the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and joint replacement techniques.

Born and raised in a small town in Arizona, Dr. McHugh brings a unique background to his medical practice. Before pursuing medicine, he worked as a wildland firefighter, responding to forest fires across many western states, an experience that instilled in him the values of teamwork and performing under pressure. When not caring for patients, Dr. McHugh cherishes time with his family, maintains an active lifestyle through regular exercise, and enjoys exploring the outdoors.

Dr. Michael McHugh offers advanced, muscle-sparing hip and knee replacement techniques designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help patients return to active living.

Advanced Hip & Knee Replacement Techniques

Dr. McHugh offers modern, evidence-based surgical techniques designed to improve recovery, reduce pain, and help you return to the activities you love. 

Anterior Hip Replacements

Anterior Hip Replacement is a minimally invasive approach to total hip replacement performed through the front of the hip rather than the side or back.

Dr. McHugh works between the muscles instead of detaching them, this approach mau result in:

• Less muscle disruption
• Potentially faster early recovery
• Improved early mobility
• Lower risk of certain disclocation precautions

Not every patient is a candidate for the anterior approach, but during your consultation, we will determine if its right for you. 

Bikini Incision (Anterior Hip)

For select patients, the anterior hip can be performed using a “bikini incision.”

This technique places the incision in a natural skin crease near the groin, which may:

• Improve cosmetic appearance
• Allow the scar to be less noticable
• Maintain the same safety and effectiveness as traditional anterior approaches

The focus is always on surgical precision and safety. Cosmetic considerations are secondary but important for many patients.

Muscle-Sparing Techniques

When possible, Dr. McHugh uses muscle-sparing techniques in both hip and knee replacements. 

This means:

• Working between the muscles instead of cutting through them
• Preserving natural anatomy
• Supporting quicker functional recovery

Muscle preservation can help reduce post-operative pain and promote earlier movement.

Subvastus Approach (Knee Replacement)

In knee replacement surgery, a subvastus approach may be used in appropriate candidates.

Instead of cutting through the quadriceps tendon, this technique:

• Preserves the quadriceps muscle
• Helps maintain muscle strength
• May improve early knee function
• Can reduce pain in the first few weeks after surgery

Patient selection is important, and your surgeon will discuss whether this approach is appropriate for your anatomy and condition.

Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement

Robotic-assisted technology is an advanced tool that helps surgeons perform joint replacement with enhanced precision. 

Robotics allow for:

• Detailed preoperative planning
• Precise implant positioning
• Improved alignment
• Customized surgical execution

It’s important to know that the robot does not perform the surgery, Dr. McHugh remains in control at all times. The robotic system simply provides real-time data and guidance to enhance accuracy. For many patients, robotic-assisted surgery may help improve the implant longevity and functional outcomes.