October 17, 2022

Meet John Clohisy, MD

Hip Reconstruction and Preservation Specialist 

Dr. Clohisy specializes in comprehensive surgical treatment of the hip. This includes total hip arthroplasty with special focus on the direct anterior approach, young patients, complex primary and revision procedures. His practice also features hip preservation surgery for pre-arthritic hip disease in young patients. Hip dysplasia, hip impingement, sport injuries and Perthes deformities are common disorders treated. Hip arthroscopy, osteotomy, and impingement procedures are performed for these conditions to relieve symptoms and preserve the natural hip joint.

Dr. Clohisy’s research interests include the diagnosis and treatment of pre-arthritic and early arthritic hip disorders, optimizing joint replacement procedures in young patients, and total joint arthroplasty patient surveillance.

Where are you from? 

I grew up in the Chicagoland area in a family of ten children and two wonderful parents. Our household was full of action, occasional chaos, and lots of laughter. The city and beautiful Lake Michigan had a great deal to offer while growing up. We were Chicago pizza lovers and diehard Chicago Cubs fans even in the face of many years of poor teams. My years in St. Louis eventually changed things and pulled me to the Cardinals at the dismay of my Chicago-based family members. On the other hand, Chicago pizza is still the best by far! 

What made you choose hip reconstruction and preservation as a specialty?

Adult reconstructive surgery was always attractive to me because of the positive impact it can have on patients’ lives. The surgical procedures range from routine to complex, and you can see immediate benefit for the patient. Total joint replacement surgery is remarkable in that it consistently relieves pain, improves function and enhances patient quality of life. To be a part of that healing process is extremely rewarding. In addition, osteotomy surgery (cutting and repositioning bones) in any anatomic location was my favorite type of procedure during my training. Throughout my career I have applied this interest to my hip practice, and hip osteotomy procedures are now my main area of clinical expertise and academic focus.

What brought you to Washington University Orthopedics?

Washington University Orthopedics was attractive to me because of the absolute commitment to outstanding patient care as the foundation for success. I had the sense that the medical center had incredible potential for practice growth and presented the opportunity to care for the most complex and challenging orthopedic conditions. The remarkable education program and emphasis on high quality research were additional aspects of the culture that were attractive to me. Returning to St. Louis was also a major positive because we were familiar with the city as we spent our residency years here raising our young family. I joined the department 24 years ago and have enjoyed watching the incredible growth and accomplishments of the department and unique contributions of our talented faculty. The clinical, surgical, administrative and research staff have been amazing to work with and are a highlight of my career. One such example is my clinical nurse Madelyn Curry who is an extraordinary health care provider. We just celebrated her 20th anniversary of working in the department and providing outstanding care to our patients.  

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

I take care of hip conditions in patients 10-100 years of age and provide comprehensive surgical care. Every aspect of my practice is enjoyable but treatment of young patients with hip disease is most rewarding. When I started practicing, the field of hip preservation surgery was in its infancy and our understanding of disease and treatments was very limited. The concept of hip preservation surgery was (and still is) fascinating to me. It is extremely satisfying to do surgery that relieves pain, restores activity and improves quality of life, but also prevents or delays arthritis progression for decades. Our group at Washington University Orthopedics including several of my partners and collaborators has been one of the lead centers in the world in shaping the field of hip preservation surgery. It has been extremely rewarding and fun. 

Was there a past patient who made a lasting impact on you?

I have two patients that have major disability due to congenital absence of both arms. Despite this severe condition they both developed the remarkable ability to perform and function in the activities of daily life. All activities of the hand were performed by their feet. They were fully functional with school, work and daily activities of living. They both developed hip osteoarthritis in their dominant lower extremity that caused pain and limitation of daily function. We provided treatment with total hip replacements and both have done remarkably well. I will always remember their resilience, persistence, example and ability to transcend their disability. Amazing people and an inspiration! 

Anything new on the horizon for hip care?

The field of adult reconstruction surgery is in the midst of a major transition and our group is on the forefront of clinically relevant research. The application of new technologies (robotics, computer navigation, intraoperative imaging and remote monitoring) to hip and knee surgery care represents a remarkable area of practice evolution. Along with innovation comes the need for rigorous clinical investigation, and our team is fully engaged in studying the advantages and potential disadvantages of these new technologies. In the realm of hip preservation surgery our investigators continue to move the field forward with research studies in the biology of arthritis, tissue regeneration, natural history and surgical prevention of hip arthritis. It is an extremely exciting time in joint reconstruction surgery and related research.  

What is the best advice you ever received and who was it from? 

Of course, my wife Mary of 33 years is a consistent source of great advice. My father was a great example as he was committed, humble and hard-working. He commonly used to tell us to “go the un-demanded mile,” meaning to do more than is expected. This has been a life-long motto for me and applies to all aspects of life including faith, family/friends, community and career.  

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work? 

Outside of work family time and family activities are most important to me. My wife, Mary, and I have four sons, three daughter-in-laws (the “sun sisters”) and 5 grandchildren. It is really inspiring to watch how all our sons and their spouses are navigating life. Time with grandchildren is just a blast as grandparents have special freedoms. This year we officially became “empty nesters” but our female rottweiler named Shelly keeps us entertained. In addition to family, I am a sports fan and I love outdoor activities mostly including running, biking, boating, and fishing. Fishing is definitely my favorite hobby and is a source of diversion and challenge outside of work. It also serves as a fun bonding activity for my immediate and extended family members and friends. The Missouri rivers and reservoir lakes provide incredible beauty and opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities. A 5-day bike trip with Mary in Acadia National Park this past summer was a recent highlight, and we envision many beautiful biking trips in the future.

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

If I had not gone into medicine, I suspect I would have gone into education as I have always been interested in mentoring. A career with combined teaching and coaching at the secondary or collegiate level is something I have always thought about. Educators can have such a positive and profound impact on the development of adolescents and young adults. I have always admired those standout teachers who play a positive role in shaping the values and character of our youth. 

Learn why patient's choose Washington University Orthopedics, request an appointment online or call (314) 514-3500.