E. Bailey Terhune, M.D. Joins Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush

Bailey Terhune, M.D., a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in primary and revision hip and knee replacement surgery, has joined Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.

Dr. Terhune, also an assistant professor at Rush University Medical Center, described her practice and approach to care to OTW, “I specialize in both primary and revision hip and knee replacement, with expertise on partial knee replacement and direct anterior hip replacement. I completed a fellowship at Mayo Clinic for additional training in complex arthroplasty, including deformity and periprosthetic joint infection. I take a patient-centered approach both before and after surgery, to make sure that each treatment plan is individualized for the patient’s unique needs and goals.”

“The opportunity to significantly enhance a patient’s quality of life through hip and knee arthroplasty is what drew me to this specialty,” said Dr. Terhune to OTW. “Patients suffering from severe arthritis often experience debilitating pain, limited mobility, and a reduced quality of life. Hip or knee replacement can alleviate pain, restore mobility, and get patient’s back to the activities that they love.”

Dr. Terhune received her undergraduate degree from Colorado College, followed by her medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society.

While in residency at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, she received multiple awards for dedication to teaching, research, and clinical care. Dr. Terhune further specialized in complex primary and revision hip and knee replacement through her fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. She is now an assistant professor at Rush University Medical Center, in addition to being a member of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons.

“Research is a very important part of our practice at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush,” Dr. Terhune told OTW. “Despite advancements in prosthetic design and surgical techniques, challenges like implant wear, failure, and complications such as osteolysis or aseptic loosening still occur.”

“Our implant retrieval lab is one of the most advanced in the world, and the research that we do here plays a critical role in addressing these challenges by offering valuable insights into the long-term performance of implants. We recently completed a study evaluating wear of specific hip implants, finding specific patterns of backside wear that had not prevoiusly been described. These results were recently published in the Journal of Arthroplasty. These types of studies that Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is uniquely able to perform are essential for understanding the reasons behind implant failure, refining prosthetic design, and enhancing patient outcomes.”

“Hip and knee arthroplasty offers the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients. Joint replacement often involves ongoing follow-up to monitor recovery, possibly addressing more than one joint, and follow up to monitor implant longevity. These sequential visits allow me to maintain a connection with patients, witnessing their progress and celebrating their return to a more active lifestyle. I find great satisfaction in being a part of their journey to improved health and mobility.”

“Lastly, the constant evolution of joint replacement technology and techniques makes the field exciting to be a part of. Advances in prosthetic materials, minimally invasive surgical approaches, and technology-assisted surgery have revolutionized the field. These innovations allow us to achieve better alignment, reduce tissue trauma, and accelerate patient recovery.”