Dr. Christopher Palmer leading the way in robotic joint replacement for Missouri

With a focus on minimally invasive treatments and robotic-assisted procedures, Palmer continues to redefine the treatment landscape for musculoskeletal disorders, offering patients safe, effective alternatives for joint replacement surgery.

Dr. Christopher Palmer, a distinguished specialist in robotic total joint replacement surgery, has performed more robotic total joints than anyone in Missouri, totaling more than 2,000 successful procedures.

Palmer has been with Signature Orthopedics St. Louis for more than six years providing comprehensive care for musculoskeletal disorders. Palmer treats a variety of orthopedic issues and focuses on minimally invasive treatments, total joint and partial joint replacement, joint arthroscopy, and orthopedic trauma. Palmer also has specialized training in performing procedures with the Mako SmartRobotics™ system.

Initially looking for a safer and more reliable option for the well-being of his patients, Palmer himself continues to be impressed by what can be accomplished with robotic-assisted procedures.

“I swiftly observed a notable improvement in patient satisfaction when incorporating robotics for joint replacements. Their experiences were characterized by reduced pain, enhanced range of motion, and a more natural feel in their joints,” he says. “The positive outcomes extended beyond comfort, leading to a decrease in the necessity for pain medications and physical therapy. This reinforced my belief in the transformative impact of integrating robotics into joint replacement procedures for the overall well-being of my patients.”


Courtesy of Dr. Christopher Palmer, Signature Orthopedics of St. Louis
Courtesy of Dr. Christopher Palmer, Signature Orthopedics of St. LouisPalmer%20Surgery%202.jpg

A Soccer Rally

After 14 years of professional soccer, St. Louisian Mark Moser, age 57, had gone through several surgeries and procedures on his knee to repair torn cartilage. Over time, the cartilage deteriorated, leaving Moser’s knee bone-on-bone, forcing him to walk with a limp and be in pain daily.

“Dr. Palmer was a pleasure to work with. Over the years I have seen many orthopedic surgeons and Dr. Palmer was very informative and compassionate,” Moser says. “He took the time to do an examination and review the tests with me. Then he fully explained the options and procedures, giving me full confidence in making my decision to move forward with the robotic assisted procedure.”

At first, Moser wasn’t interested in the robotic procedure, but after Palmer walked him through the series of benefits, high success rate and shortened recovery time, Moser was on board.

“The results have been phenomenal. The recovery time was great and I am pain free now and can do all the things that I want to do without any pain,” Moser says. “One of the deciding factors in searching for a knee replacement was the inability to play with my grandson without pain and it affecting me for days. I am now free to run and kick ball with grandson and not have to fear the pain. It has truly changed my life and I would suggest anyone that has knee pain see Dr. Palmer and learn your options.”


Courtesy of Dr. Christopher Palmer, Signature Orthopedics of St. Louis
Courtesy of Dr. Christopher Palmer, Signature Orthopedics of St. LouisPalmer%20Mako.png

A New Option

With myriad success stories similar to Moser’s, Palmer has made it a mission to spread information about robotic-assisted innovations in orthopedics. “The guidance I offer to patients grappling with hip and knee pain caused by arthritis is simple yet transformative: Living with the discomfort is no longer the only option. A more advanced and effective avenue for treatment is available through the application of smart robotics,” Palmer says. “This innovative approach not only addresses the pain but opens up new possibilities for improved mobility and a better quality of life. Embracing these technological advancements can redefine the treatment landscape for those experiencing arthritis-related hip and knee pain.”

Beyond his clinical achievements, Palmer is a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences, as well as a board member at Steri 3X and a medical consultant at Convatec and Ethicon. With his background in infectious disease research, he also actively contributes to innovative solutions in infection prevention, wound care, and surgical advancements.

“The prospect of providing a less invasive, less painful, and more consistently reproducible alternative for my patients left a lasting impression,” he says, “fueling my commitment to advancing in this innovative field.”


This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Dr. Christopher Palmer–Signature Orthopedics. To learn more about Dr. Christopher Palmer or Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery, visit signaturemedicalgroup.com.