Leading the Way in Orthopaedic Innovation at AHN Saint Vincent Hospital

At AHN Saint Vincent Hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, patients experiencing joint pain or injury can access one of the most advanced orthopaedic programs in the U.S.

With specialized expertise in hip and knee replacements, sports medicine, trauma, and foot and ankle care, the team offers a seamless experience designed to restore patient mobility and enhance quality of life.

Experience that sets the standard

In 2015, Saint Vincent became the first hospital in the region — and among the earliest nationwide — to perform robotic-assisted joint procedures.

Pioneered by Robert Lupo, MD, AHN orthopaedic surgeon, this approach helps patients achieve faster recovery, reduced pain, and improved joint function compared to traditional joint replacement techniques. Today, Dr. Lupo ranks among the top robotic surgeons in the country by procedural volume.

“Being an early adopter of robotic-assisted hip and knee replacements reflects our commitment to offering patients the most advanced orthopaedic care available,” said Dr. Lupo. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see how our extensive experience in integrating innovation can transform their lives.”

Continuing the tradition with next-generation techniques

Building on its legacy of innovation, Saint Vincent offers next-generation joint replacement procedures, including:

• Direct anterior hip replacements, a minimally invasive approach that accesses the joint through the front of the hip, allowing surgeons to work between natural muscle planes without detaching tendons.
• Muscle-sparring knee replacements using a subvastus approach, which avoids cutting the quadriceps tendon by navigating underneath the muscle.
• Kinematically aligned knee replacements, a technique that positions the implant based on how an individual’s joint naturally moves, rather than aligning to standardized measurements.

Seamless, supportive care

Comprehensive supports compliment the surgical expertise at Saint Vincent, ensuring continuity of care from preoperative preparation through rehabilitation:

• Dedicated nurse navigators guide patients from pre-surgical testing through recovery.
• Same-day discharge for most patients allows early physical therapy support to promote optimal recovery timelines.
• Pre-operative joint education classes prepare patients and their families for what to expect before, during, and after surgery.

This coordinated model streamlines care delivery and contributes to high patient satisfaction and strong functional outcomes, all close to home.

How to refer

Contact the AHN Orthopaedic Institute at AHN Saint Vincent Hospital by calling 814-454-2401. In-network providers can make a referral via MyChart or EpicCare^® Link™.