How Orthopedic Surgeon Robert O Anderson Approaches Patient Care
“For me, medicine is first and foremost an act of service.”
“I’m here to help you: to take away your pain and fix whatever ailment is holding you back from the things that you want to do. I do that by listening to my patients, understanding their goals, and developing a plan that works for them.”
For me, medicine has always been about service. As a hand and upper extremity surgeon, I don’t just treat joints, tendons, and bones—I help people return to the activities, work, and relationships that give life meaning. Service is what called me into medicine, and it’s what drives how I care for each patient I meet.
Global Service as an Orthopedic Surgeon
My commitment to service extends beyond Minnesota. Each year, I travel to Honduras with One World Surgery, a surgical mission organization founded by a Summit Orthopedics physician. There, I provide orthopedic surgeries for people who would otherwise have no access to care. These trips remind me of the true purpose of medicine: to serve, to restore dignity, and to give people back the ability to live their lives fully.
Patient-Centered Care with an Orthopedic Surgeon
Here at home, service means listening first. My approach always starts with you. I want to understand what matters most to you—whether it’s returning to work, enjoying a favorite hobby, or simply living without pain. Once I know your goals, I lay out the options, explain the pros and cons, and give you and your family the time to make the decision that feels right. From there, we create a treatment plan together. My role is to guide and support; your role is to decide what’s best for you.
Orthopedic Surgeon for Athletes and Active Patients
I’ve also been privileged to serve athletes for more than 20 years, most notably gymnasts at the highest levels, including Olympians. Their dedication inspires me, and I find joy in helping them navigate the physical challenges their sport places on the upper body. Personally, I stay active playing tennis and cycling. I enjoy connecting with patients who share these passions—whether they are recreational athletes or serious competitors—and helping them stay healthy, strong, and pain-free.
Orthopedic Surgeon Dedicated to Restoring Your Lifestyle
Every day, my goal is to live out service by restoring your ability to do the things you love. Whether it’s gardening, sailing, lifting your grandchildren, or competing in athletics, I consider it a privilege to be your physician and, in many ways, your family’s team physician.
Education
Fellowship
Upper Extremity
Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center — Indianapolis, IN
Residency
Orthopedics
Indiana University Medical School — Indianapolis, IN
Medical School
University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, MN
Undergraduate Studies
Saint John’s University — Collegeville, MN
Professional Memberships
Global Volunteer Work
Volunteering surgical skills in Honduras at One World Surgery/Holy Family Surgery Center
Other
- Complex elbow reconstructions
- Complex wrist reconstruction
- Work-related Injuries
- Orthopedic trauma
- Arthroscopic surgery
- Pediatrics
- Sports-related injuries
My Team
My Team
At Summit, each physician works alongside a team of professionals to care for you, our patient.
Locations
Reviews
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08/21/2025
