Dr. Butzen performed a reverse total shoulder replacement on me in October 2024, when I was just short of 74 years old. I have an active lifestyle ranching and riding horses and the osteoarthritis in my failing shoulder had been getting progressively worse over a period of four years. After several consultations with Dr. Butzen and his expert team, I opted for surgery. Dr. Butzen proved to be a proficient surgeon and the operation yielded an outcome that can only be described as an unqualified success. Before 5 months had elapsed, I was back in the saddle and down at the barn handling 65 pound bales of hay with no impediments. I found Dr. Butzen's exceptional skill as an orthopedic surgeon to be exceeded only by his professional abilities in providing pre- and post-op patient care and advice. During our consultations, Dr. Butzen did a remarkable job of providing me with all the necessary information needed to properly set my expectations so that I was ready for the various possible outcomes. He was genuine, straightforward, honest and caring when describing both the positive and negative aspects of what I was undertaking, speaking with confidence and authority that I found reassuring. I am convinced that every patient's experience will differ, but with Dr. Butzen as your surgeon and guiding light, the outcome of your surgery will be the best possible one that can be achieved. It is critically important to follow his direction before and after surgery, and to adhere to the prescribed schedule of physical therapy. In my instance, doing so resulted in a shoulder free of pain and the highly likely probability of having many more years in the saddle in the back country of Colorado. read more

I truly can't say enough positive things about Dr. Butzen. After a previous surgeon performed the wrong procedure on my right index finger, leaving it in worse condition than before, I was devastated and uncertain if it could ever be repaired. Then I found Dr. Butzen. With incredible skill, care, and precision, he performed corrective surgery that genuinely gave me back the use of my hand. I'm deeply grateful, not only did he fix my finger, but he also restored my trust in the healing process. Dr. Butzen has also helped me manage chronic pain in both shoulders. What stands out the most is that he was able to relieve my symptoms without surgery. His thoughtful, non-invasive approach and his deep understanding of the body have made a significant difference in my day-to-day life. Getting care at Dr. Butzen's practice is a seamless experience. The process to get in and be seen was easy, and his staff is absolutely fantastic, friendly, efficient, and genuinely caring. From the first call to every follow-up visit, I felt supported and well taken care of. Without a doubt, Dr. Butzen is the best doctor I've ever had. His medical expertise is unmatched, and he treats his patients with real compassion and respect. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found him, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking outstanding care. read more

I am a 67 year old high level endurance athlete living in Durango CO. Dr. Butzen has performed a carpal tunnel release on each of my wrists and recently a full left shoulder replacement. These surgeries were required due to the amount of wear on my body from all the intense athletic activities I have enjoyed all my life. All of these surgeries provided the exact relief needed from the pain I was experiencing to continue with all my athletic endeavors and to increase my performance even as I age. He is an exceptional surgeon and takes time to completely understand what type of athlete you are and to provide perfect care to continue at your level of athletic performance post surgery. My recoveries from these surgeries were always well ahead of most men my age. I would attribute this to Dr. Butzen's surgical prowess and post surgery care. read more

Dr. Butzen is an excellent surgeon and communicator! I had my finger ripped wide open on a job site. It was like a hamburger rip. I had it sewn up by a very good trauma surgeon but, there were complications. Dr. Butzen reopened my finger, corrected the problem and it is almost like new. This wasn?t my first time to meet Dr. Butzen.Approximately 2 years ago, my wife while working on landscaping in our yard slipped and broke her wrist (on a Sunday afternoon). I was then able to get a text to Dr. Butzen that evening and by 10am on Monday she was scheduled for surgery the very next day! The break required a metal plate and 10 screws. She is doing great and we both were amazed at the speed and professionalism of Dr. Butzen and his staff.Our family is very appreciative of Dr.Butzen! read more

Dr. Butzen and his team recently performed rotator cuff surgery on my left shoulder. From my first visit, he and his staff were attentive, clearly communicated and cared for me like a close friend or family member. The surgery went smoothly, with a thorough video synopsis of the procedure that was informative and clearly communicated, which put me at ease. I am on the road to recovery and thankful that I had Dr. Butzen and his caring staff on my team. read more