Andrew R. McNamara
MD, FAAOS
“I am a board-certified upper extremity surgeon specializing in the treatment of conditions from the shoulder to the fingertips. I use advanced techniques, including computer navigation technology, to enhance precision and improve outcomes in shoulder replacement surgery. My patient-centered approach focuses on understanding each individual's goals and collaborating to find the most effective operative or non-operative treatment plan.”
About Dr. McNamara
Dr. Andrew McNamara is a fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity doctor specializing in the latest treatments for injuries and conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. Dr. McNamara joined Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic in 2018 and enjoys using his knowledge and expertise to help patients in Mankato, Minnesota, and throughout the region heal and return to their desired lifestyle and activities.
A native Iowan, Dr. McNamara received his undergraduate degree in biology from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, before earning his medical degree from the University of Iowa Care College of Medicine in Iowa City. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at St. Louis University Hospital in Missouri before pursuing further specialty training in hand and upper extremity surgery at the University of Florida Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation in Gainesville, where he completed an advanced, yearlong fellowship.
In his practice, Dr. McNamara’s approach to caring for patients involves getting to know the patient and after making a diagnosis, presenting the appropriate treatment options, and working with the patient to find a solution that best fits their lifestyle and goals. Outside of his practice, Dr. McNamara enjoys playing jazz and classical piano himself, so he understands the importance of hand and upper extremity function for not only everyday activities, but also quality of life. Dr. McNamara also stays active with activities like cycling and hunting.
Dr. McNamara is dedicated to staying up to date on the most advanced and highly effective treatment options, including:
ExactechGPS Guided Personalized Surgery for Shoulder Replacement: This technology is designed to improve accuracy and precision in alignment and placement while optimizing patient care using an advanced computer system, navigation, and a personalized surgical plan based on an anatomical model of each patient’s shoulder. With real-time visual guidance, ExactechGPS helps Dr. McNamara perform surgery with the latest techniques so patients with chronic shoulder problems can get back to doing what they love.
Primary Total Shoulder Replacement: During a primary total shoulder replacement, the ball of the shoulder joint is replaced with a prosthesis that includes a stem with a metal head. The bone socket is smoothed, and a plastic cup is placed as the new socket where the metal ball will reside.
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement: An innovative alternative to traditional shoulder replacement, a reversed procedure is for patients with shoulder arthritis and significant rotator cuff damage. Dr. McNamara reverses the ball and socket replacement components to offer better strength, stability, and range of motion.
