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Alaska's Premier Orthopedic Care Provider Since 1974
Orthopaedic Research Clinic Alaska has been dedicated to advancing orthopedic care in Alaska for over five decades. Our multidisciplinary team includes fellowship-trained specialists in every orthopedic discipline, ensuring patients receive the highest level of expertise available. With five state-of-the-art facilities across Anchorage, Eagle River, South Anchorage, Wasilla, and Palmer, we provide comprehensive care spanning joint replacement, sports medicine, pediatric orthopedics, spine care, and trauma treatment. Our commitment to individualized care means every treatment plan considers the patient's functional level, medical condition, and personal goals.We pioneered innovative biological therapies like PRP and amniotic cell treatments under the leadership of Dr. Doug Vermillion, a recognized pioneer in regenerative medicine. Our surgical teams perform procedures at seven accredited hospitals and ambulatory centers, maintaining a 98.7% patient satisfaction rate for joint replacements using the SwiftPath System. Through continuous investment in technology and staff training, we maintain our position as Alaska's leading orthopedic provider while preserving a patient-first philosophy that values transparency and ethical care.
Services
Joint Replacement
Sports Medicine
Pediatric Orthopedics
PRP Therapy
Spine Surgery
Fracture Care
Physical Therapy
Biologics
Shoulder Repair
Knee Reconstruction
Highlights and features
- Fellowship-trained specialists in all orthopedic disciplines
- Pioneers in Alaska for regenerative medicine and PRP therapy
- 98.7% satisfaction rate for joint replacement procedures
- Five convenient locations with immediate access to diagnostics
- Board-certified surgeons serving as team physicians for local schools
Associations and certifications
- The American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
What people say
Phenomenal care
Sincerely cared
Accelerated healing
Expert diagnosis
World-class treatment
Services
PRP Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy uses patients' blood to accelerate healing through concentrated growth factors. This minimally invasive procedure treats tendon injuries, arthritis, and post-surgical recovery with 12-month symptom relief for osteoarthritis. Our clinic pioneered this approach in Alaska under Dr. Vermillion's leadership, achieving exceptional outcomes in joint and soft tissue repair.
Joint Replacement
Comprehensive joint replacement services for hips, knees, and shoulders using traditional and robotic-assisted techniques. Our surgeons perform over 90% of procedures with infection rates below 1%, utilizing SwiftPath protocols for faster recovery. Specialized programs address complex revisions and deformity corrections using anterior approach and custom implant technologies.
Pediatric Orthopedics
Specialized treatment for pediatric musculoskeletal conditions including congenital disorders, sports injuries, and growth-related issues. Our fellowship-trained specialists manage developmental dysplasia, limb deformities, and scoliosis through non-invasive and surgical approaches. The only Alaska clinic offering 24/7 access to pediatric orthopedic walk-in care with dedicated specialists.
Sports Medicine
Comprehensive management of sports-related injuries across all skill levels from professional athletes to recreational enthusiasts. Services include ACL reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, concussion management, and performance optimization. Our team serves as official physicians for local high schools and universities, combining surgical expertise with sports-specific rehabilitation protocols.
Spine Surgery
Advanced treatment for spinal conditions ranging from degenerative disc disease to traumatic injuries. Minimally invasive techniques address herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis corrections. Our surgeons specialize in complex revisions and tumor management, integrating preoperative imaging with customized rehabilitation plans to restore mobility and reduce chronic pain.
People
Dr. Doug Vermillion
Orthopedic Surgeon
Leading pioneer in regenerative medicine with 25+ years of orthopedic experience. Developed Alaska's first PRP therapy protocols and maintains a 90% success rate in tennis elbow treatments. Board-certified with dual fellowships in sports medicine and biological therapies.
Dr. Brown
Pediatric Orthopedist
Specializes in pediatric trauma care with expertise in congenital limb deformities and growth plate injuries. Recognized for compassionate care in treating childhood fractures and developmental conditions. Maintains active membership in pediatric orthopedic specialty societies.
Dr. Douglas Prevost
Joint Replacement Specialist
Performs over 200 joint replacements annually using robotic-assisted technology. Expert in anterior hip replacement techniques that reduce recovery time by 40%. Serves as primary investigator for multiple orthopedic device clinical trials in Alaska.
Dr. Lars Matkin
Sports Medicine Surgeon
Team physician for University of Alaska athletics with specialization in ACL reconstruction and shoulder instability. Implements evidence-based return-to-play protocols for collegiate and professional athletes. Active researcher in sports concussion management.
Dr. Brad Sparks
Knee Reconstruction Expert
Only Alaskan certified in Jiffy Knee total knee replacement technique. Focuses on minimally invasive approaches that enable same-day discharge for 75% of patients. Developed rapid rehab protocols adopted by multiple regional hospitals.
Questions
Do you treat pediatric orthopedic emergencies?
Yes, our Anchorage clinic offers 24/7 pediatric orthopedic walk-in care for urgent injuries and conditions affecting children and adolescents.
What biological therapies are available?
We offer PRP therapy, bone marrow aspirate, amniotic cell treatments, and adipose cell therapies for joint and soft tissue regeneration.
Are sports injury specialists available?
Our board-certified sports medicine team treats all athletic injuries, serving as official physicians for local high schools and universities.
How quickly can I get a same-day appointment?
Same-day appointments are available at all five locations for urgent orthopedic needs during regular business hours.
What joint replacement technologies do you use?
We employ robotic-assisted systems, anterior approach techniques, and the SwiftPath protocol for accelerated recovery joint replacements.
Do you accept major insurance plans?
All major health insurance plans are accepted across our Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and Palmer locations.
Reviews (6)
Norm Carreaux
Jan 16, 2022
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Experienced staff that are proficient and knowledgeable in orthopedic care, I have had 3 surgeries performed by Dr Vermellion, 2 of which were joint replacements and couldn't be happier with the outcome. I would highly recommend ORCA for all of your orthopedic needs.
Rick Boots
Jan 10, 2022
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Dr. Vermillion and the ORCA team are a rare and valuable asset in Alaska's medical community. I would score higher if the scale exceeded Five Stars. Key points... ORCA will not rush you to surgery. They perform a complete analysis which may include treatments to mitigate surgery if surgery is not yet necessary. If surgery is deemed necessary ORCA's process ensures reduced costs, reduced pain, and a fast recovery. My surgical success was the result of amazing skill, sincere patient care, and important pre-operative and post-operative education, preparation and follow-up. I went home the same day
Robert Jones
Jan 03, 2022
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Saw this place on TV when I called in sick. Noticed they took my insurance, even though I could already go to ANMC. I wanted someone specialized in this area. Dr. V. And his associates did an amazing job with my injury. I will be back on the trails next summer with my onewheel. In my opinion, if u want the best treatment money can buy, go and visit these fine folks. They will treat you better then family. Thank you to all at orca orthopedic research clinic of Alaska.
Zera Thomas
Oct 21, 2021
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My son was a patient here first, and after our visit for him I decided I would seek their services and advice for some pre existing knee problems. The level of care we both received was amazing. Very thorough exams in both instances, and time was definitely taken to answer any questions and cover any concerns. This has been a long standing issue for me, and I have been seen elsewhere for it but Ive never received a level of care at this caliber. One visit has brought more answers than multiple visits with other offices in town. I highly recommended ORCA. Thank you all again!
Calyse Chavez
Oct 12, 2021
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Love this clinic! Front desk staff is quick to check you in and answer any of your questions! Dr. Ben took in all my concerns and worked effortlessly to come to a solution! 10/10 will definitely recommend!! :)
Rosilyn Lane
Sep 26, 2021
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I was having really bad Hip Pain. I had seen ORCA'S commercial several times. From my very first visit the whole staff was welcoming. I had a total Left Hip replacement and it couldn't have gone any easier. From beginning to end I was fully informed on how things would go. I am so happy to have found Dr. Vermilion and Benjamin. If you need to see an Orthopedic Doctor definitely give them a call.
