Ask Dennis Heimerl about his recent hip replacement, and with a twinkle in his eye, he’ll tell you his only regret is not being able to get both hips replaced at the same time.
Dennis was the first patient at GRH to undergo a hip replacement using our new VELYS robotic-assisted system, advanced technology that helps our surgery team perform joint replacements with higher accuracy, and helps our patients recover faster and stronger as a result.
“We’re committed to bringing the best tools and care possible to our community. Robotic-assisted technology like VELYS allows us to be more precise and consistent,” said orthopedic surgeon Matthew Copple, DO, FAAOS. “But what matters most is how that translates to our patients – less pain, improved movement, and a smoother recovery.”
While using the VELYS system, our surgeon remains in full control throughout the procedure.
“Even with advanced technology in the operating room, the surgeon is always in control,” said Dr. Copple. “The system gives us real-time data to guide our decisions, but every step is still led by our team.”
When it came to a procedure assisted by the VELYS system, Dennis had no hesitation.
“I wasn’t afraid of it. They told me exactly what was going to happen, and what I needed to do before surgery,” said Dennis. “I told them they were in charge. It was as simple as that!”
A lifelong farmer, Dennis had been experiencing pain in his knees and hips that prevented him from planting in his field and moving around comfortably.
“It affected just about everything,” said Dennis. “Getting in and out of the tractor hurt. I’ll tell you what, if it wasn’t for the four-wheeler, I don’t know how I would have gotten around the yard and from one shed to the other.”
From Diagnosis to Action
In 2024, Dennis had both his knees replaced with Dr. Copple. While Dennis had some pain in his hips, he initially returned to see Dr. Copple when he experienced knee pain close to one year after his knee replacements. Suspecting that the pain was actually caused by deteriorating cartilage in Dennis’s hips that was impacting his knees, Dr. Copple ordered X-rays for Dennis’s hips. Dr. Copple’s suspicions were confirmed when the imaging results showed almost no cartilage left in Dennis’s hips. Within two weeks, Dennis was scheduled for his first of two hip procedures.
Dennis is looking forward to getting back to his regular activities, from visiting his kids and many grandkids, to working in his fields.
“Dennis is very vibrant and motivated,” said orthopedic care coordinator Morgan Draeger, RN. “After going through our total hip education with him, his first question was, ‘How soon can I get back on my tractor after surgery?’ He’s determined to get back to the things he enjoys. Being able to improve patients’ quality of life and get them back to doing the things they love is the best part of
our job.”
After giving himself time to recover from his first procedure, he was eager to schedule his second.
“Usually you can’t say you’re looking forward to surgery, but I’m actually looking forward to getting the other one done,” said Dennis. “Now I know what to expect. I know if it goes like the first procedure, I won’t even need my cane afterward.”
Dennis didn’t expect recovery to be effortless, but he was surprised by how quickly things improved.
“There’s always a little pain while recovering, but nothing compared to what I went through before surgery. It was noticeably different right away. You can say that for sure!” said Dennis. “I’ll put it to you this way – I’d recommend getting surgery instead of suffering from the pain, because the pain ain’t worth it. I told my daughter this is the best I’ve felt in 20 years, and that’s no lie.”
Exceptional Care with Every Step
For Dennis, it wasn’t just the new technology that stood out – it was the people behind it.
“They’re a good bunch,” said Dennis. “Very good people. I’d recommend them any time of the day!”
From the first consultation to each step of his hip replacement, Dennis felt confident in the plan and in the people guiding him, making the journey smoother than he expected. Our team provides a joint education teaching session, during which patients meet with a physical therapist, a same day surgery nurse, and a social worker to help our patients understand their upcoming procedure, ask any
questions they may have, and to set them up for a more successful surgery and recovery.
“We are truly committed to person-centered care, driven by best practices,” said Morgan. “We’re all part of a team to make sure their surgery and recovery process is successful, so they can do the things they enjoy with less chronic pain and increased mobility. Adding the VELYS robot is an example of how we’re enhancing personalized care – the system allows us to make more precise incisions specific to our patients’ unique anatomy.”
Between bonding over his shared birthday with a member of his surgical team, to the excellent care provided by our anesthesia team that offered him relief, Dennis was so pleased with his experience that he decided to bring in candy for our team as a thank you.
“Everybody is friendly,” said Dennis. “All I can tell you is, they’re all good people – exceptional. I can’t complain about the care! I really can’t. I feel fortunate.”
Dennis’s experience highlights more than just advanced technology – his story is a reminder that addressing joint pain sooner rather than later can have a deep impact on daily life, mobility, and overall well-being.
“It’s common for patients to wait longer than they should,” said Dr. Copple. “But the sooner we address joint pain, the sooner our patients can return to living comfortable and confidently.”
Dennis agrees the sooner, the better.
“I’ll tell you right straight – don’t put it off,” said Dennis. “I never knew I could feel so good. There’s nothing to be afraid of. It’s just that simple.”
If joint pain is keeping you from the activities you love, reach out to our team at 320-864-7816. We’re here to help you move comfortably again.
