Staying active has always been Gwynne Beatty’s way of life. As a fitness and dance enthusiast and self-proclaimed gym junkie, movement wasn’t just part of her routine, it was an integral part of her lifestyle. But when arthritis in both hips turned even the simplest movements into a struggle, she knew it was time to seek medical help.
“I tried everything, from red light therapy to specialized diets, but nothing worked,” Gwynne said. “I had to face the reality that hip replacement surgery was the best solution.”
Gwynne’s initial search for the right doctor was discouraging, some hardly acknowledged her concerns. That changed the moment she met Ryan Werntz, D.O., an orthopedic surgeon with the Broward Health Physician.
“I could not love him more,” Gwynne said. “He listens to me, takes the time to answer my questions and makes me feel completely cared for. That’s something I didn’t get anywhere else.”
Dr. Werntz explained that Gwynne’s arthritis was advanced, and that surgery was the key to regaining mobility and a pain-free lifestyle. Gwynne was especially intrigued when she learned that Dr. Werntz planned to perform a robotic-assisted hip replacement with state-of-the-art technology.
At Broward Health’s flagship hospital, the CORI® Surgical System gives surgeons the ability to enhance joint replacement surgery precision with a hand-held, radiation-free tool. It creates a 3D model of the hip and knee for customized procedures, providing real-time feedback to ensure accurate implant placement and joint balance. The CORI® Surgical System is suitable for partial and total knee replacements, it improves surgical outcomes and recovery.
“We continue to invest in advanced technology to provide patients with the most advanced surgical options,” said Dr. Werntz. “Robotic-assisted hip replacement allows for greater precision, a less invasive procedure and a faster recovery, helping patients like Gwynne return to their daily lives with less pain and improved mobility.”
Her recovery from the first surgery was smoother than she expected. Before leaving the hospital, she was up and moving with a walker, and by the two-week mark, she barely needed it.
“The nurses, the anesthesiologist and the entire team were so attentive,” Gwynne said. “I didn’t feel like just another patient; I felt truly cared for. I was so blown away by their kindness. They were just incredible.”
The experience left such a strong impression that scheduling her second hip replacement was an easy decision. Encouraged by her progress, Gwynne underwent her second hip replacement just two months later, fully confident in Dr. Werntz and the multidisciplinary team.
“If you’re in pain and surgery is inevitable, don’t wait,” Gwynne advised. “Find a doctor who truly listens and someone you trust. For me, that was Dr. Werntz and Broward Health. I couldn’t have asked for better care.”
Now, the Fort Lauderdale resident is eager to get back to the activities she loves pain-free.
For more information on Broward Health’s cardiovascular services, please visit BrowardHealth.org/Ortho.
