February 28, 2022

Meet Ilya Bendich, MD - Hip and Knee Specialist

Dr. Bendich sees patients in St. Charles at Progress West Hospital, and cares for patients with hip and knee pain, including arthritis and other conditions, with the goal of restoring quality of life through both nonsurgical and surgical treatment.

Where are you from? Anything fun/special about your hometown? 

I was born in Uzbekistan, but grew up in Great Neck, New York. My hometown’s claim to fame is that we're home to “West Egg,” and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel Great Gatsby was based on it.

What made you choose orthopedics as a specialty?

As were many orthopaedic surgeons, I was injury prone in my youth and had my fair share of visits to my local orthopaedist. This sparked an interest and allowed me to learn, first-hand, about the field early on. I specifically became interested in joint reconstruction in medical school while shadowing in clinics and seeing how grateful patients were after undergoing a joint replacement.

What brought you to Washington University Orthopedics? How long have you been with Washington University? 

My colleagues in the orthopaedics department are world-class physicians and thought-leaders in their respective subspecialties. I was drawn to WashU to have the opportunity to work and grow alongside them.

What aspect of your practice do you find most interesting or rewarding?

I find both the clinical and research aspects of my practice rewarding. I feel fortunate that patients trust me with their care. It is a privilege to meet patients, diagnose their problem, and offer them a solution (surgical or not). While clinically I am only able to impact the lives of the patients I meet, through research I hope to provide some advancement in our field that may have a broader impact as well.

Are you working on any interesting clinical trials or studies right now?

I am interested in hip and knee arthroplasty robotics and have several studies ongoing.

What’s on the horizon for recon patient care? What are you excited about?

I believe technology will play a bigger role in the operating room, assisting surgeons with intra-operative decision making and implant positioning.

What's the best thing about working and practicing at an academic medical center? 

The ability to take excellent care of patients, advance the field through research, and translate research findings back to patient care.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work?

My family and I (my wife Sarah and son Mason) are new to St. Louis, so our favorite thing currently is exploring the many neighborhoods and finding great food to try. I also enjoy cycling and watching college and pro football and basketball.

If you weren't a doctor, what would you like to be doing? 

Dr. Bendich treats patients at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital and Progress West Hospital. Learn more about Dr. Bendich and and why patients choose Washington University Orthopedics.