Brett J. Gilbert, MD
Brett J. Gilbert, MD

Joint Replacement, Hip & Knee

Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery, Hip and Knee Replacement Specialist

Triangle Region

Apex
Fuquay-Varina
Raleigh
Triangle Surgery Center
North Carolina Specialty Hospital

Dr. Brett Gilbert is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with advanced fellowship training in hip and knee replacement surgery. As part of the EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region Joint Replacement and Hip and Knee Teams, Dr. Gilbert is known for his kind and compassionate nature. He truly cares for his patients, ensuring that their well-being and health remain a top priority.

Education and Expertise

Dr. Gilbert received his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois and his medical degree from the Duke University School of Medicine. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Duke University Medical Center and furthered his specialty training with an adult joint reconstruction fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.

He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, and the North Carolina Orthopedic Association.

Dr. Gilbert is certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and specializes in the treatment of hip and knee arthritis. His areas of surgical expertise include MAKOplasty robotic-assisted joint replacements of the hip and knee, revision hip and knee replacements, total hip replacement, and total knee replacements.

His extensive experience performing these procedures enables Dr. Gilbert to offer the following services:

Services
  • Minimally-invasive partial knee replacement
  • Patellofemoral replacement
  • Minimally invasive hip replacements
  • Minimally invasive knee replacements
  • Makoplasty total knee replacement
  • Makoplasty total hip replacement
  • MAKOplasty robotic-assisted joint replacement
  • Muscle-sparing hip replacements
  • Revision total knee replacement
  • Revision total hip replacement
  • Computer-assisted surgery
  • Gender-specific joint replacements
  • Rapid rehabilitation protocols for faster recovery after surgery
  • Outpatient joint replacement surgery
  • Outpatient hip replacement surgery

In addition to providing subspecialty orthopedic care for EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region, Dr. Gilbert practices at the following sites:

  • Rex Hospital
  • North Carolina Specialty Hospital
  • Triangle Orthopedics Surgery Center

Awards and Recognition

  • Patients’ Choice Award
  • On-Time Doctor Award
  • Compassionate Doctor Recognition
  • Patients’ Choice 5th Anniversary Award
  • Top 10 Doctor – Metro Area
  • Top 10 Doctor – City
  • Top 10 Doctor – State
  • Compassionate Doctor Award – 5-Year Honoree

Dr. Gilbert in the News:

If you are experiencing pain in your hip or knee joints, Dr. Gilbert can diagnose and provide treatment options for your specific condition. Dr. Gilbert and his caring team look forward to meeting you and helping you live a fuller, more active lifestyle.

For more information on Dr. Gilbert and treatment options for your hip and knee issues, you may also visit his website at www.brettgilbertmd.com to learn more about orthopedic diagnosis and treatment.

Request a consultation with Dr. Gilbert now. Or, call us at 919-220-5255 any time to speak with an EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region team member.

Patient Testimonials:

The best!

Dr. Gilbert replaced both my knees. He and his staff are absolutely the most caring medical team I have ever had. They truly care about their patients and make preparing for the surgery, the actual surgery, and the follow-up a breeze. They should provide classes to other medical teams in Wake County on how to treat their patients. They are THE BEST!

Amazingly skilled surgeon

Truthfully, I cannot say enough good things about this doctor and his practice! Putting off a total hip replacement for three years, traveling around Cary and Raleigh to get second and third opinions because I didn’t want to believe that I needed a new hip at age 52. Active all my life, I wanted to find a doctor who would tell me the others were all wrong…but instead I found Dr. Brett Gilbert who concurred. Yes, I did need the surgery and still, he did everything he could to ease my pain before I finally caved in. I should have seen him first and had it done sooner. Really – he came highly recommended by a gym friend and I couldn’t be happier with the results! Was able to toss away the cane after 10 days and taking 20-minute walks outdoors at day 12. Up and down stairs with some caution, but no problem. A little sore muscle action, but that’s normal. The closing scar is as near perfect as possible and I am so excited to get my active lifestyle back again! You would be treated with respect along with a terrific bedside manner.

Extremely pleased

I am extremely pleased with the results of my knee replacement surgery. My physical therapist tells me that my recovery is about three months ahead of the average recovery rate for this surgery. Every nurse and physical therapist that I have spoken with says that Dr. Gilbert is the best and his patients tend to recover faster from surgery. He is friendly, thorough and has a great bedside manner to boot! I highly recommend Dr. Brett Gilbert if you are contemplating knee replacement surgery.

Read More Testimonials

Back playing golf

Great result from hip replacement surgery. A quicker than expected recovery. I was back playing golf within a couple of months, which was much quicker than expected. Great support staff.

Pain free

I badly needed a right hip replacement. In December I was referred to Dr. Gilbert. I had almost no pain post-op and have had no pain. The results are excellent. I highly recommend this physician!

Best I’ve felt in years

I had hip replacement surgery on December 2, 2014. Dr. Gilbert told me that when I got out of surgery I would not have the same pain that I have now, and he was right. I’ve never felt this good in years. For whom ever is thinking of having this surgery don’t wait like I did. It’s not that bad once you get past the first two weeks you will feel stronger each day. The worse thing you can do is have this surgery and lay around and do nothing. The more you get up and do your exercise the faster you will get back on your feet. When you’re laying there watching TV, do your exercises. Good luck to everyone and thanks again doc.

Excellent surgeon

Dr. Gilbert and his staff have a way of making you feel valued, cared for, and important to his practice. He is an excellent surgeon, has terrific staff members, and I thoroughly recommend him. I had total knee replacement surgery done 1 year ago, and I am thrilled with the outcome.

Excellent, stupendous, and more…I did a lot of research before I chose Dr. Gilbert to perform my total hip replacement. After my research I determined that Makoplasty performed by Dr. Gilbert was going to be my best bet. I am extremely happy to say I chose the best. Dr. Gilbert is excellent. Explains whatever you need explained, very patient, great bedside manner, follow-up appointments were great and his staff is unbelievable. Next time I won’t wait 3 years before deciding to have anything replaced.

Outstanding

Dr. Gilbert is a phenomenal surgeon. He is patient, thorough, and helped me understand my condition in a way that was clear to me. His office exudes excellent customer service.

Great knee replacement I realized I needed help in being able to function and improve the quality of life. I had been having injections in my knees to relieve the pain for years, but that was meeting with limited results. I began checking around for surgery options/doctors. I was impressed by the reviews Dr. Gilbert received and decided to make an appointment. The process from that point on was very positive. Dr. Gilbert discussed my knees with me and explained the process. I had my surgery on October 7th, 2013 and my left knee is great. I am now planning to have my right knee done with Dr. Gilbert. I am happy to place a review as I want others to know that I had a great results with Dr. Gilbert.

Dancing pain free

I had a total hip replacement on October 14th, 2013. I love the difference it has made in my life. I went dancing in January and felt great! Dr. Gilbert and his staff made me feel so comfortable. If anyone is having any hip pain due to loss of cartilage, please don’t put off getting the surgery. There is no pain now.

New world of possibilities

Doctor Gilbert and the entire EmergeOrtho organization are caring people who bring a high degree of professionalism to their work. Their teamwork, dedication to their patients, and humanity are evident in every interaction. I was really hesitant about getting my knees replaced, and delayed the decision to get help way too long. I was really hurting. At my initial consultation, the entire staff (receptionist, physicians assistant, x-ray tech, and Doctor Gilbert) treated me with warmth and respect. Dr. Gilbert answered all of my questions (even the goofy ones), and provided me with a realistic idea of what to expect. His confident manner, warm presence, and ability to answer my concerns was very reassuring. The day of surgery went really smoothly, and although the first couple days of recovery were difficult, the nursing staff did a good job of keeping me comfortable. NC Specialty Hospital has got to be the absolute best place for a hospital stay. The entire staff (nurses, assistants, doctors, and housekeeping) bring a really positive attitude to their work, and the food is first-rate. I wish I could have stayed longer. The physical therapists at EmergeOrtho started working with me on the second day, and they did a great job of getting me back on my feet and moving. The EO therapists are great teachers and bring a keen sensitivity to their rehabilitation work. They know what is likely to hurt and have strategies for minimizing the discomfort. As my condition improved, they adapted my rehab program to keep it interesting, challenging, and fun. My recovery went smoothly. After 3 weeks, I was feeling better than I had in 10 years, and now, 3 months after surgery, it just keeps getting better. Dr. Gilbert and the entire team at NC Specialty Hospital and EmergeOrtho bring years of experience, a positive attitude, and genuine compassion to their work. This is a fine group of health care professionals, and I rate my experience with them at 10 on a scale of 1-10. To those who have knee problems and replacement is indicated, I recommend that you just go for it. Having new knees has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me.

Supportive and encouraging

I could not be more pleased with the work of Dr. Gilbert and his staff. From the initial appointment, I felt his honesty and forthrightness. He was direct in answering questions. More important, he demonstrated a degree of humility about the possible outcome while being supportive and encouraging. Most important, I am now 8 weeks out from the surgery and all is going extremely well.

Compassionate

Dr. Gilbert is compassionate; takes time to listen, explain and understand you! Staff is efficient and very competent. Dr. Gilbert was recommended by a friend who had a very successful knee replacement. I had torn meniscus repair. Also the practice, EmergeOrtho, is a large supporter of local athletic programs – for me it was their support of Leesville Road High School football/baseball. Good doctors and good community neighbors.

Wonderful doctor

Fantastic experience at EmergeOrtho with Dr. Gilbert – scheduled appointment within a few days, not a week or two. Friendly reception staff with minimum wait time. Dr. Gilbert is a wonderful doctor and is very kind, informative, truly listens to you the patient and is and very down to earth, a great guy you can trust. His nurse/assistant, Pamela, is wonderful and a true asset to the practice. The ladies of the MRI crew are awesome too, and made it a pleasurable event. I would never go to any other practice. What more to say…Great practice, Great Doctors…Great service!!!!

Working out 5-6 days a week

I had a left total knee replacement done in October and the right one in June by Dr. Gilbert. Three months after the second one and I am working out 5-6 days a week for an hour and can practically do anything. I would recommend Dr. Gilbert to anyone needing a knee replacement. Thank you Dr. Gilbert and your staff for such wonderful care!

Pain was eliminated

After several years of right knee pain, too many unnecessary test costing lots of money, and lots of my wasted time in therapy, I went to a seminar by Dr. Gilbert that I saw in the paper. I got an appointment very quickly, with a very courteous office staff. Dr. Gilbert quickly new what needed to be done to correct my pain. Surgery was performed, and my pain was eliminated very soon after all the therapy. I can’t thank Dr. Gilbert enough, because now I am able to walk again without pain. I highly recommend Dr. Gilbert for any of your Orthopedic needs.

Highly successful total knee replacement

I have so many positive comments for my highly successful total left knee replacement surgery; I’ll try to pick just a few. Dr. Gilbert REALLY knows his field; he and his entire staff is focused and experienced and were more than willing to help me understand every aspect of the surgery, from what to expect before, during and after. Everyone involved took the time to thoroughly answer all my questions and concerns. The day after the surgery, my wife commented I wasn’t limping anymore. Thank you Dr. Gilbert.

Wonderful experience, complete trust

Dr. Gilbert inspires complete confidence. I had both knees replaced last year (first one in March, second in June). I was kind of nervous, but after the first surgery, was anxious to get the second one done. He is very patient and gentle. I have recommended him to several people since my surgeries. I will be going back to see him soon about hip pains. I have complete trust in his medical opinion.

Dr. Gilbert rocks!

I had a right total knee replacement done on 6/26/13 at North Carolina Specialty Hospital by Dr. Gilbert. I have heard such horror stories of recovery. I need to tell you that at 2 weeks out I am happy that I had this operation. The first few days were not easy but the results are wonderful. I am walking with a cane already and will be putting that away soon. Everything about Dr. Gilbert and his practice has been easy and just the way the staff said it would work. I would recommend Dr. Gilbert to anyone needing a knee or hip replacement. I would also recommend EmergeOrtho to anyone that needed orthopedic treatment. Thank you Dr. Gilbert and your staff for such wonderful care!

Dr. Gilbert gave me back my life

I had a total left knee replacement the day before Thanksgiving in 2012. Dr. Gilbert was wonderful. He answered all of my questions, prior to the surgery, putting me at ease, as I knew exactly what to expect. Everything went as planned. Dr. Gilbert gave me back my life. I can walk pain free. When its time to do the other knee, Dr. Gilbert will be the surgeon! I would recommend Dr. Gilbert to everyone needing knee replacement surgery.

Can’t wait to get the other done

At 53, not sure what to expect, I had my left hip replaced first. The first few days were tough, but expected. What I didn’t expect was how fast the next steps would be. Key is to do the PT work. The hip is so much better adding a better quality to life. I can’t wait to get the other done, knowing how easy the hip reacts after surgery. Of course my PT people pushed me but were very supportive, which helped a lot. I was up with a cane after 2 weeks, on my own by 4 weeks, feeling great now after 8 weeks.

Quicker recovery

Dr. Brett Gilbert is one of, if not the best, Orthopedic surgeons that I have had the privilege of being a patient of. He is very professional and efficient! I have had two surgeries performed by Dr. Gilbert and have been advised by my therapist that his patients seemed to progress quicker than most and their range of motion after surgery seems to be higher than most other patients. It is a good feeling to have confidence in a surgeon, knowing that everything that can be done will be done to perfection. I would advise anyone who is having Orthopedic problems to contact EmergeOrtho and make an appointment with this gentleman. I would travel long distance to be able to be seen and treated by him. Dr. Brett Gilbert and NC Specialty Hospital deserve the highest ratings possible!!!

Good as new

Had both knees replaced four months apart. Pre-ops, surgeries and follow-ups were all highly professional. Recovery has been excellent–back to a physical job in less than 2 months both times, and have had no physical issues since. Feel “good as new” less than 1 year after the 2nd surgery! Immediate difference after hip replacement.

Excellent Surgeon

Hip replacement performed early in the morning, walked that evening and went home the next day! I hike, play golf, ride a bike, do yoga At 39, I was horrified to find out I needed total hip replacement. To say I was afraid my adventurous life was over was an understatement. The hip doctor I was seeing recommended that I see Dr. Gilbert. His comment was that he specializes is hip repair for young people. I took his advice and saw Dr. Gilbert for a second opinion. I was not disappointed. His patience, understanding and bedside manner was great and just what I needed. Not only did he listened to my concerns and gave me a hip that does not greatly limit my activities; he worked with my Crohn’s doctors to insure all my medical needs were met. Not just the hip. His attention to the smallest details and willingness to customize my care to meet my specific needs made the whole process a whole lot easier than it could have been. I’ve had my new hip for 2 years now and I still love it. I hike, play golf, ride a bike, do yoga, and best of all I can sit cross-legged on the floor!!! I’ve not been able to do that in years! Thanks to Dr. Gilbert, I’m looking forward to many more active years.

Wish I had done this sooner

Many people told me horror stories and warned me it would take a long time to recover. I don’t remember the surgery itself, but I do know I was using the walker the first day. The second night was the worst night for pain, but after that it was tolerable. Two weeks later I threw away the special pain pills, the walker, crutches and cane. I walked into the office for my two week follow up. Like many, I wish I had done this sooner. I would track Dr. Gilbert down when it comes time for the other knee and/or hips. I loved his positive manner.

Recovered quickly

Dr. Gilbert performed 2 total knee replacements on me. One in July and one in October. I am very happy with the results. I recovered quickly and was very impressed with the whole process. Before I even went for surgery I had home health care nurses visit my home to help me prepare and after they came as well. Dr. Gilbert’s staff handled the hospital appointment scheduling and everything for me. It was a seamless process for me. All I had to do was show up. The whole staff is great there. I wish I would have done it sooner. I highly recommend Dr. Gilbert for knee surgery….and don’t put it off. You will feel so much better after.

Excellent knee surgeon

Dr. Brett Gilbert is an excellent knee surgeon. I would highly recommend him for his expertise in his field. I had minimal pain and recoup time and was walking with a cane in 1 and half weeks and driving in 4 weeks.

I’d trust Dr. Gilbert with my other knee as well!

Having total knee replacement surgery is not an activity in which one participates and then just ‘walks’ away. Fortunately, only one knee had to be replaced stemming from an injury from 30 years ago. But, if I needed to have the other knee replaced, my first call would be to Dr. Gilbert. If he could not perform the surgery, there would have to be a non-elective need for me to go to someone else. As far as I can tell, the procedure went perfectly – even for ‘one of the worst knees the doc had ever seen’! I am now pain free and have all the mobility in the knee that I will ever need. Thanks Dr. Gilbert!

Pain free after hip replacement

Highly recommend this doctor for hip replacement surgery. Completely satisfied with the results.

Outstanding doctor

Dr. Gilbert and his staff are very patient oriented. I had my right knee replaced in September 2010. Prior to my surgery he discussed everything with me as what to expect after the operation. Thanks to Dr. Gilbert, I was able to play tennis in five and a half months. I had such good results with my right knee I had him replace the left knee January 2012. The recovery time for the second knee replacement was shorter than the first. Thanks again to Dr. Gilbert and EmergeOrtho I am back on the courts enjoying tennis again.

Wonderful Doctor and Staff

Dr. Gilbert performed a complete hip replacement on my right hip. My new hip feels so natural, I don’t know I have an artificial hip. Dr. Gilbert also performed a complete knee replacement on my right knee. I remember when I couldn’t use my right leg since I was in so much pain. My knee surgery was done a little more than 3 months ago. The surgery was done on a Wednesday and I went home Friday the same week. Dr. Gilbert’s staff is very friendly and helpful. I never feel rushed or that I’m asking a foolish question.

Knee is perfect

Dr. Gilbert was excellent! Had my knee “scoped” to repair torn meniscus. No problems what so ever and the knee is perfect. Can’t say enough about my experience. Thanks!

500 times better

When I was told I would need hip replacement, it was hard for me to believe this was necessary, but I had gotten to the point that I couldn’t walk for long periods of time without stiffness and pain. After meeting and talking to Dr. Gilbert and reading about his education and background, I put my confidence in him and have never regretted for a minute having this surgery. It’s been a year and I am 500 times better. Dr. Gilbert is a surgeon you can trust to do what’s best for you.

Dr. Gilbert is AWESOME

I went to several orthopedic doctors prior to Dr. Gilbert over a 2-year period. Everybody said I had back problems from just being old and worn out. Dr. Gilbert came in to see me the first time with a copy of my x-rays and said “here is your problem right here, and it can be fixed.” Less than 30 days later I have a new left hip and 3 months later, a new right hip. I am 70 years old and came BACK TO WORK FULL TIME in 5 weeks after surgery. My life has changed completely. I can shop with my granddaughter again and am back to my hobby of quilting/sewing. Life is wonderful and Dr. Gilbert is AWESOME. I owe my freedom of movement to Dr. Gilbert. Thanks for putting me back out in the world again!!!

New knee feels better than it has since my youth

I am 73 years old and received a total knee replacement at Rex Hospital on June 18th, 2012 by Dr. Gilbert. I found him and his staff to always be totally concerned about your problem and willing to do their very best to answer any and all of my questions. I was totally happy with everything and my new knee feels better than it has since my youth.

First day of the rest of my life

I had suffered from chronic bone-on-bone arthritis in my right knee joint for over 10 years. Back then, at 40 something I wasn’t old enough for a knee replacement. So the Doc gave me shots and I limped along. Last Christmas I could not even shop or do the special cooking and decorating I love to do for the holidays due to my knee. I felt ancient. It was time for a change, a big one. So at 52 I went to Dr. Gilbert and said lets do this. He was upbeat and agreed it was time. So he did and then I did! He replaced my knee and that began my life change. I hadn’t ever done anything really healthy for myself. I was a workaholic, foodaholic, couch-mashed potato. So even though it is a cliché, the day after surgery really was the first day of the rest of my life. Pain management along with moving, moving, moving thru the pain was the first hurdle. What was I eating and why, was second and third and most importantly was to relax! Stop worrying and start doing. If you do your therapy like its air and then do more, and you eat, sleep and relax, see the Doc, take your time and focus on recovery you will do it. Out 6 weeks and I was back to work and driving. 12 weeks out, the Doc cleared me 100% to do anything I want except running. I have more energy, I have lost some weight and continue to increase my activity and exercise level. If I can do this anyone can. Commitment, focus and a great, competent Doctor are the keys to success.

Wonderful experience

Dr. Gilbert performed my surgery at NCSH. What a wonderful experience. Not only was my surgery experience positive, the whole 2nd floor nursing team deserves recognition for their compassion, work ethic, response to my needs and concerns, and overall quality of service. I recommend Dr. Gilbert for his affiliation with this hospital through EmergeOrtho!

Skilled and talented surgeon

I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Gilbert and EmergeOrtho. I had my one-year follow-up for a complete hip replacement today. My appointment was 8:30; I arrived early and was seen early. I don’t believe I have ever waited more than 10 minutes past my appointment time to be called in. His talent is amazing. The day after my surgery, I was on my feet, and NONE of the pre-existing pain was present! A very skilled and talented surgeon. Another testament of his bedside manner, my surgery was scheduled for a Monday morning – I received a personal telephone call from Dr. Gilbert the evening prior…a Sunday, asking if I had any concerns or questions and that he would see me the following day. I have never had that type caring from any physician! From my experiences, I highly recommend Dr. Gilbert for any joint needs. He will be my surgeon of choice.

The world’s best MD!

After my knee replacement with Dr. Gilbert, I walked around, it didn’t hurt, I wasn’t sore, I didn’t need to take any pain medication. Amazing!

Walking Unaided 2 Weeks after Total Knee Replacement

I’ve known for 5 years that I have extensive osteoarthritis in my knees. After a particularly painful episode, I needed to find a orthopedic surgeon to diagnose my current status. A friend recommended EmergeOrtho; I saw on their website that Dr. Gilbert specializes in “old knees” (I’m almost 70) and has an outstanding curriculum vitae. I was able to get an appointment within a week; had an exam and x-rays, which were shown to me; and given a prognosis and options. It was clear from my discussion with Dr. Gilbert that my right knee was nearing total collapse. I booked surgery with him that day. Three weeks later, I entered NC Specialty Hospital. I stayed 2 nights; my treatment there was excellent in every way. Dr. Gilbert is superb!

Amazing hip replacement

I came in with a walker, and I could just about dance my way out.

Professional and Compassionate Surgeon!

One and one half years ago, I came to Dr. Brett Gilbert’s Durham office beset with misshapen legs and two very painful, bone on bone knees. Soon after my office visit, Dr. Gilbert completed my first total knee replacement surgery, and one year later, my second. Thanks to the medical skills of Dr. Gilbert and his team, just several months later I am enjoying a life filled with pain free mobility! Not only is Dr. Gilbert a most professional surgeon, but he is a compassionate, funny and nice individual. I highly recommend Dr. Gilbert for your total knee replacement surgery, and appreciate the opportunity to tell everyone how great I feel. Thank you Dr. Gilbert!

A New Level Of Orthopedic Care Has Emerged

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