We wanted to include Dr. Tamin Umran for his strong professional background, proven track record, and tenure. For starters, he’s the Division Head of Arthroplasty at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, making him one of the most qualified professionals for hip and knee reconstruction.

Our confidence in his expertise was further cemented when we learned he’s a clinical associate professor at the University of British Columbia.

We also learned from our interviews that our interviewees had received different treatments and services from Dr. Umran and his team. For instance, some of them just completed knee surgeries, while others were assisted with ligament tears.

Previous patients have also shared that Dr. Tamin and his team provided genuine care and made them feel at ease throughout the surgery.

We were also pleased to discover that the Doctor takes the time to explain diagnoses and procedures to patients in a way they can easily understand.

Our only gripe is that the Doctor doesn’t offer an online booking system, which we think is standard today.

The compassion I was shown was incredible

“I would like to give a big, heartfelt thank-you to Saint Paul’s Hospital for all their support during my stay.

On September 3rd, 2025, I had knee replacement surgery with Dr. Unram and his team. From the time that I checked in, I was treated with the utmost respect. Staff were very friendly and engaging.

Surgery was a success, except I’m a patient with MS, and I ended up with more neuropathy leg pain than usual. This was unexpected! I was able to stay in the hospital longer and was able to put some support in place for when I returned home.

The compassion that I was shown was incredible. I work as a school Youth and Family Counselor, and this is the same compassion and support I would give my students and family.

I would like to thank the 10th-floor orthopedic staff, Dr. Unram, and Janet for all the support and medical advice that helped me get to where I am today.

Dr. Unram is an incredible human with so much compassion, respect, and devotion to his profession.

Lastly, if I could give 100 stars, Dr. Unram and nurse Janet would get all of them.

Feeling very Blessed!”

Jen-Anne, Google Review

Exceptional surgeon

“I was referred to this exceptional surgeon after a fall in which I broke bones in my foot and also my tailbone. Very painful. He is an impressive and even imposing man. He gently showed me the X-rays and articulately explained in layman’s terms what the situation was.

He then gave me the most encouraging, practical, and (to me) sensible advice as to the future. It was worth the long wait to see him. He’s quite amazing.”

Brian Cluer, Google Review

Dr. Lauren E. Roberts stands out for her extensive foot and ankle expertise. In fact, she’s the primary name people look for regarding complex ankle trauma!

It’s also worth noting that our interviewees who recommended her recovered from a myriad of conditions, from ankle fractures to ligament injuries, tendon tears, and more.

Moreover, we discovered that she also offers elective surgery. We’ve had respondents share their surgery and recovery stories regarding their hammertoes and bunions, and all of them were pleased with the Doctor from start to finish.

They shared how Dr. Roberts explained patiently and clearly their conditions and what the necessary procedures would be. This, in turn, made them feel at ease and confident that they were in good hands.

Dr. Lauren is also affiliated with one of Vancouver’s most reputable medical centres, Burnaby General Hospital, granting her access to advanced imaging tools, world-class anesthesia teams, and post-operative care units—plus, the hospital is covered by public health insurance.

Highly recommend her

“My visit to Dr. Roberts was great, and I had other orthopedic surgeons refuse my referrals. I had my doctor send a referral, and two weeks later I was in to see her.

I have been waiting for over two years to see an orthopedic surgeon. I would highly recommend her. Very professional and caring. And will be having my ankle fixed in April 2026.”

Arthur Still, Google Review

Starting to walk without the boot and crutches

“I broke my ankle in 3 places, and poor doctor Robert tried to set it twice, then said, ‘ I need to do surgery. I am now 6 weeks post-op, and I am starting to walk without the boot and crutches, too.

Next month I hope to go back to work, all because of the Great job doctor Roberts did.

All in time for my birthday too. Thanks again, Doctor Roberts.”

Lee Robinson, Google Review

We knew we had to include Dr. Bassam Masri when we saw his 30+ years of practice and his contributions to his field. For starters, he has promoted system-level improvements by playing a role in establishing the Complex Joint Clinic.

His credentials are second to none as well, having completed his residency at UBC and fellowship training at New York’s Hospital for Special Surgery.

We also spoke with his previous clients, who noted that his tenure is best demonstrated in consultations, where he clearly explains complex diagnoses, why they occur, and what procedures are required to heal/alleviate them.

Dr. Masri specializes in hip and knee replacements, and we couldn’t count just how many successful surgeries he’s done based on our interviews. We also appreciate how he offered less invasive options, such as partial knee replacements.

Although his availability is quite limited, he’s one of the most qualified for orthopaedic surgery. Scheduling might be a bit difficult.

Forever grateful

“Today I am celebrating the fourth anniversary of my new knee.

I can ski again. I can dance again. I can walk again. Pain-free. Drug-free.

I shall be forever thankful to Dr Masri and his team for giving me back my mobility.

His straightforward, skilled, and honest approach was appreciated.

The wait times are long… but the result was unequaled.

Edit: 2022 – Adding a photo of my “special place”… that I can only get to again, thanks to Dr. Masri. Forever grateful.”

Neil Collins, Google Review

Incredible people

“Dr.Masri and his assistant Julie are incredible people. I am forever thankful. It is now 9 weeks since my THR, and I’m able to move around as I did 30 years ago. 

No real pain since day one, they took care of me like I was a baby….which I sorta am, took so long to consent to surgery, ( I was chicken), being in the right hands sure helps…piece of cake! Thank you sincerely!”

Doreen Chance, Google Review

Dr. Jesse Slade Shantz was recommended to us by our respondents for his extensive expertise in arthroscopic surgery. 

Most of them had their shoulder, knees, and elbows repaired, and went on record that they’ll only go to Dr. Shantz moving forward because of his minimally invasive procedures. They also noted that their scars healed quickly and that the overall procedures were less painful.

The doctor also offers a wide array of sports-related procedures, which explains why most of our interviewees were athletes. We were impressed with the variety of injuries Dr. Shantz has helped them with, ranging from ACL reconstruction to rotator cuff tears, etc.

Previous patients also appreciated how he doesn’t just jump into surgical procedures immediately and offers biological treatments when applicable. For instance, one way he helps people with soft-tissue issues recover is through PRP Therapy.

We were also pleased to discover that the doctor and his team deliver great care during consultations and procedures.

The only downside is that since his affiliated clinic is a private care provider, out-of-pocket costs are more likely to occur.

Very knowledgeable

“I’ve had quite a few experiences with Jesse and the team at Acumen. Jesse is great – a really nice guy, very knowledgeable, and above all else, honest. The team is also amazing to deal with. Would highly recommend.”

Ed Reay, Google Review

Simply the best

“I had a complete tear in my supraspinatus tendon a few months ago after an accidental fall. Initially, I contacted BC’s public healthcare system but was facing long wait times for an MRI, a specialist consultation, and surgery.

Fortunately, a friend recommended Dr. Jesse, and I’m so glad they did! Dr. Jesse responded to my case incredibly quickly. 

Within a week of contacting him, he saw me for an initial consultation, thoroughly examined my shoulder, reviewed my MRI and X-rays, and scheduled surgery within two weeks. His expertise as an orthopedic surgeon is unmatched, and the surgery went perfectly.

Now, nearly five months post-surgery, my recovery has been amazing. Dr. Jesse has continued to follow up with me monthly, ensuring that my shoulder is healing properly and introducing me to athletic therapists who have been instrumental in my rehabilitation.

Thanks to him and his team, I’ve regained almost the full range of motion in my shoulder. I can’t recommend Dr. Jesse enough—he and his team are simply the best. If you’re looking for an experienced and caring orthopedic specialist, look no further!”

Joe Zou, Google Review

Although there’s only a limited amount of public feedback available online regarding Dr. Richard, we wanted to include him for his experience and tenure. For starters, he’s been in practice since 1995, making him one of the most experienced orthopaedic surgeons in Vancity.

We were also impressed by his credentials, having been a Clinical Assistant Professor at UBC and a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Our interviewees also shared how they chose Dr. Richard for his broad area of expertise. Some of our respondents were recovering from complete and partial knee replacements, trauma surgeries, and arthroscopy procedures.

We were pleased to discover that the majority of our interviewees felt at ease with Dr. Richard, which they attributed to his genuine bedside manner. They added that they felt cared for and that the doctor didn’t leave any skepticism in their minds before proceeding with surgery.

The only complaint we’ve heard so far is Dr. Richard’s limited telehealth availability, which we also think is a must, given his slightly limited operating hours.

Skilled and thoughtful

“I had a total knee replacement with Dr. Kendall 7 years ago and a partial knee replacement 6 weeks ago. Both surgeries were very successful. 

I can’t say enough about how skilled and thoughtful Dr. Kendall is. He has excellent bedside manner and is a great listener. I highly recommend him for any joint replacement.”

Sheila Pace, Google Review

Absolutely remarkable

“In 2014, I had a full knee replacement by Dr. Kendall, which was changing. Nine years later, it is still perfect. On January 6/24, I had an anterior hip replacement by Dr. Kendall. Feeling awesome. 

Absolutely remarkable surgeon and great guy. Very lucky to have had him operate on me. Also, a huge thank you to Rachel, who organized my surgery. She’s a gem.”

Gary McBride, Google Review