Daren M Wickum, MD

Minnesota Roots and a Lifelong Interest in Orthopedics

I’m proud to be Minnesota born and raised. Living in a place so rich in outdoor activities, I had my fair share of broken bones growing up. So, I got an up-close look at orthopedics before most people do. I found it fascinating — and I still do.

Daren M Wickum’s Specialty Focus: Hip and Knee Replacement

Today, my surgical practice specializes in hip and knee replacement. I work with a wide range of patients, including active adults in middle age and older folks who are having pain. It’s important to me to understand my patients’ goals and what they want to get out of surgery, in part because those goals and priorities vary so much from person to person.

Daren M Wickum’s Experience With Minimally Invasive Techniques

I’ve been doing hip and knee replacements for more than 20 years. To put that in perspective, most hip replacement surgeons today specialize in the direct anterior approach — but I was doing that kind of minimally invasive hip replacement surgery when it was a new, cutting-edge idea rather than the standard it is today. Patients generally prefer this approach, since it causes less trauma to the surrounding muscles and tissues. My previous patients tell their friends and families, so now I have people come in requesting the minimally invasive approach specifically. Whether hip or knee, my patients trust me to do the best job I possibly can for them.

Daren M Wickum’s Patient-Centered, Choice-Driven Philosophy

That level of trust begins in the clinic. When you meet me, you’ll see a straightforward, good-humored person you can relate to. I love meeting patients in clinic, learning about them, and putting their worries to rest. I tell my patients that they always have choices. I can help improve their quality of life, but they are the ones who determine what is best for them. They’re the boss — it’s that simple. Sometimes surgery’s the solution, and sometimes it’s not, but in either case, they have the power to make the choice that is right for them.

The Summit Team Approach And Outside the Clinic

I value the team approach we have here at Summit. I work closely with my PA, physician colleagues, therapists, and other Summit team members. Outside the office, I’m a big fan of scary movies. I am married, and I have three sons who keep me busy with all their sports and activities.