Clay Wellborn, M.D.

Dr. Wellborn at the Nirschl orthopedic center performed a total hip replacement for me in 2018. It was a life changing surgery and I could not be more grateful. Besides his expertise and long experience, he is thorough, patient, accessible to his patients and has a excellent bedside manners. The center’s staff are also wonderful. They always got back to me when I needed information or to complete forms. They are helpful, pleasant and professional. The care and attention given at this center is superb and I highly recommend it to patients seeking orthopedic care.

Dear Dr. Wellborn,
As I contemplate my check-up with you tomorrow 4/17/2019, it occurs to me that I shoulder share with you my thoughts about my surgery and the results of my participation in Physical Therapy afterwards. This is a letter about gratitude to you for the way in which you approached my surgery and made it possible for me to regain my health and strength once again.

We just returned from out trip to Poland to see our family and I would like to share their feedback as well. I feel strong and during our trip we never used a care because we walked, used trams, the local bus, and made a trip to Warsaw in a Pendolino train, all of which depend upon building your ability to climb stairs, carry luggage, get safely on and off of moving vehicles, and a desire to be in charge of improving my strength daily.
I also shared the report and the CD you gave me. Since other members of our family have also had right hip surgery, they were anxious to see the CD as well as share their own CD’s from surgery. The were surprised that I could participate in all of the above activities every day and be in control of my improvement at this point. They were intrigued by the CD which they said demonstrated that the scar was small and the way the surgery was done reflected a knowledge of how to skillfully do my hip replacement so that the time needed for healing was not as long as they were used to experiencing after their own surgeries. I was able to move safely, drive a car, and go with my husband to see family without a need for canes or any other type of support. I was proud of the metal insert from my hip almost down to my knee because it felt light and did not set off the alarms at the airport!
Additionally, you okayed the time necessary for me to have Physical Therapy with Mike and Paige at the Nirchl Center in McLean. They helped me to own my responsibility for learning how to practice and use increasingly more difficult movements to restore my strength for everyday living. Mike always told me to focus on all aspects of improvement and not let up but always reach for my best. Both Mike and Paige reflect the positive message that this Physical Therapy center demonstrates every day. It is valuable that we can all see everyone working hard and improving, which is a strong motivator for every person who comes there after surgery. Many kudos go to Mike, Paige, and the other people who work there. I see that the connection between surgery and getting your life back again is that you and this group are dedicated to your clients and you work closely to support each one of us.

A special thank you goes to Mike and to Paige for teaching me how to come back to how I used to be when I didn’t know that support, guidance, and commitment on my part would allow me to be that person again.

With gratitude for all of you who helped me to return to myself. Remember that together, you are stronger and more effective than you would be alone.

Linda Marison

Dear Mr. Cole,
My name is Shirley A. Coyle. On 1/22/19 I underwent knee replacement surgery at the Virginia Hospital Center (VHC) under the direction of Dr. Clay Wellborn. I am 76 years old. This was my first hospital experience. Quite frankly I was scared beyond explanation regarding this type of surgery. However, after consultation with Dr. Wellborn and in reaching my “limit” with the pain in my knee I decided on the surgery.

My overall experience at the VHC was nothing short of outstanding. From admissions to discharge the professionalism displayed by the personnel at the DHC exceeded my expectations in all respects. Specifically, virtually everyone I encountered during my brief stay conveyed a sense of caring, respect, cordiality and competence.

I would highlight the following individuals who played a specific role in my stay at the DHC: In getting prepared for surgery, Dr. Banks, (anesthesia) as well as Dr. Wellborn lowered my anxiety immensely with their comforting and extensive explanations of the various steps that would occur in the procedure as well as the results anticipated. My post operative care in Room 511 was addressed by nurses “Charleiz”, “Elsa”, and “Anh” all of whom were extremely patient and attentive in providing a highly professional level of care. They were assisted by Patient Care personnel “Fefe” and “Jannette” both of whom lived up to their titles in superlative fashion.

In sum, I rate my overall stay at the VHC as a 10/10 and would recommend the institution without qualification. Lastly, through references I learned that Dr. Wellborn was “one of the best” in the knee replacement business. I can now confirm that.

Shirley A. Coyle

Ms Coyle,
Thank you so much for taking the time to write about your experience with knee surgery here at Virginia Hospital Center. I think that we would all concur that Dr. Wellborn is indeed “one of the best.” He is highly respected. I hope that you are continuing to recover well and I will be sure to pass along your kind words to all involved in your care.

Thank you,
Jim Cole
CEO, Virginia Hospital Center

“I was referred by a friend to this office. I saw Dr. Wellborn and have nothing but wonderful things to say about him. He’d been called into surgery the morning of my appointment and was running about 15 minutes late. As soon as he walked into the room and introduced himself he apologized for the delay. After explaining my problem – dealing with my first ever running injury (I’ve been running for over 20 years), he was understanding and immediately said, “Okay, we need to get you running again as soon as possible.” I didn’t have to explain to him the importance of running or argue that this sport was something I wanted (needed!) to continue. He listened to my concerns and explained everything thoroughly, including my diagnosis. He took his time and I never felt rushed. Overall I was very pleased and I’m hopeful that when I return in a month for my follow-up exam I can state the PT helped correct the problem and I’ll be cleared to return to my previous levels of running.” 

Courtney B.

“It has been 5 years since I moved to Florida from Arlington VA. When I injured my knee it seemed that the doctors in Florida could not diagnosis it properly. I finally gave up and flew back to see Dr. Wellborn. With his excellent care and attention to detail he was able to diagnosis me with a torn patellar tendon. It is now 8 weeks post-surgery and I am feeling great! I will not make that mistake again; any orthopaedic injury and I will be on the first plane back to see Dr. Wellborn.” 

Steve P.

“I am one of your satisfied customers. This month marks the one-year anniversary of my last total hip replacement surgery. A previous total hip replacement was performed on my other hip a year prior. Both surgeries were very successful and I am walking again, the way I use to. My quality of life has improved 100% from two years ago and I want to thank you for the excellent medical professional that you have on staff in Dr. Clay Wellborn. 

He met me with a strong handshake and a smile and gave me confidence that we could fix what ailed me. And he did. He advised me on his recommended course of action, discussed all questions I had thoroughly, and supported my decision-making. I felt a real partnership with him in planning for my surgeries. And the best part was that he did an excellent job repairing my failing hip joints. You have a rare gem in Dr. Wellborn. “ 

Mildred L.

“I saw Dr. Wellborn to consult about the need for hip replacement. It was a wonderful experience and as a nurse I’m a hard grader for medical experiences. Every person was friendly and helpful. They were so punctual I was amazed! Dr. Wellborn was kind and patient. He explained everything thoroughly and checked for questions. Their surgical coordinator was also very helpful and thorough. I couldn’t have been happier!” 

Wendy S.