Christopher Nanson, M.D., M.P.H.

Specializing in Reconstructive Joint Surgery

About Dr. Chris Nanson

Dr. Nanson is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a special interest in reconstructive joint surgery with an emphasis on hip and knee reconstruction. He specializes in the direct anterior approach, one of the minimally invasive techniques used in hip replacement surgery. 

Dr. Nanson is currently accepting new patients and welcomes them to ROC. 

Read more about Dr. Nanson’s past experiences and expertise

As a board-certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Nanson focuses on reconstructive joint surgery with an emphasis on hip and knee reconstruction. He specializes in the direct anterior approach, one of the minimally invasive techniques used in hip replacement surgery.  

Dr. Nanson completed his undergraduate studies and a master’s in public health at the University of Arizona. He received his medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Then, he completed a surgery residency program at Phoenix Orthopedic Surgery followed by an orthopedic residency program at the University of Arizona in Tucson. In addition, Dr. Nanson completed an adult reconstructive surgery fellowship program at OrthoCarolina Hip and Knee Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. 

A native Oregonian, Dr. Nanson and his wife are raising three girls, and he enjoys golf, the wine country, hiking, and cycling.  

He is a frequent speaker and contributor to Becker’s Healthcare, Becker’s ASC Review, and the Becker’s Healthcare Spine and Orthopedic Podcast.  

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PATIENT EDUCATION VIDEOS

Get to Know Dr. Nanson

Dr. Nanson works with MAKO®, an industry leader in surgical robotics to bring a new level of accuracy and precision to joint replacement surgery.

Meet the MAKO ® Robotic-Arm System

Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted surgery enables a new level of accuracy and precision for joint replacement surgery. Mako is used by our surgeons for partial knee resurfacing, total knee replacements, and total hip replacements. The surgeon controlled robotic arm helps surgeons get a patient-specific image and more precisely place and align implants used in joint replacement surgery.

Pre-Surgery

A personalized plan. It begins with a CT scan of the joint that is used to generate a 3D virtual model of your unique anatomy. This virtual model is loaded into the Mako system software and is used to create a personalized pre-operative plan.

In the Operating Room

During surgery, your surgeon guides the robotic-arm while preparing the joint and positioning the implant based on the personalized pre-operative plan. The Mako system also allows the surgeon to make adjustments to the plan during surgery, as needed. When the surgeon prepares the bone for the implant, the Mako system guides the surgeon within the pre-defined area and helps prevent the surgeon from moving outside the planned boundaries. This helps provide more accurate placement and alignment of the implant.

After Surgery

Your surgeon, nurses and physical therapists will set goals to get you moving again. They will closely monitor your condition and progress. Your surgeon may review an X-ray of the new joint replacement with you.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement has come a long way in the past decades and you and your doctor have several options. Depending on how much damage your doctor sees in your knee, your doctor may recommend a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement.

Hip Replacement Surgery

If you’re one of the millions of Americans suffering from pain caused by arthritis or an injury to the hip, and you haven’t experienced adequate relief with conservative treatment options, Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery might be right for you.

Jiffy Knee Surgery

As a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Nanson completed Jiffy Knee training with Dr. Manish Patel, the creator of The Jiffy Knee. As a Jiffy Knee surgeon, Dr. Nanson focuses on soft tissue preservation techniques. Jiffy Knee surgeons do not cut any muscles or tendons when performing knee replacement surgery. Instead, they use special instruments and techniques to “lift” the muscle and slide it. By doing this, patients experience less pain and recover faster.

Dr. Nanson's FAQ

Education

Undergraduate Degree

University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona

 

Medical Degree

The Ohio State University College of Medicine

Columbus, Ohio

Training

Phoenix Orthopedic Surgery (surgery residency program) 

Adult reconstructive surgery fellowship at OrthoCarolina Hip and Knee Center 

Professional Affiliations

American Medical Association

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons

North Pacific Orthopaedic Society

Oregon Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Western Orthopaedic Association

Locations

Pinned Map Oregon City Oregon
Pinned Map Tualatin Oregon

What Patients Say

Randy R.

Dr. Nanson has given me a quality of care that is leaps above my routine medical experiences.

Randy R.

Lauren L.

I set up an appointment with Dr. Nanson because according to my regular orthopedist, Dr. Nanson is the guru of anterior hip replacement surgery.

Lauren L.

Ashley L.

Dr. Christopher Nanson did my total hip replacement. The staff was amazing, polite, and friendly, and extremely professional in every way.

Ashley L.

George G.

Dr. Nanson has been my doctor for 10+ years and I wouldn’t want anyone else working on me. Not only is his expertise of the highest in his field, he is also very personable and gets to know his patients beyond the physical aspect.

George G.

Jil J.

Excellent experience! As a surgeon myself, it was VERY different being in the patient position. The entire process from consultation, surgery, and then the post op experience was perfection. The whole team is fantastic & everything runs like a well oiled machine. They took such good care of me! I was thoroughly impressed. If I need another joint replacement, I will absolutely be returning here.

Jil J.

Pamela C.

Very pleased with my experience at ROC. The office team was friendly and helpful. Dr. Nanson was kind and considerately took the time to explain things well. I also received the feedback I needed, regarding all my concerns.

Pamela C.

Kathy N.

Total knee replacement. Gave me my life back. Dr Nanson explained everything to me, didn’t sugar coat anything! Surgery went great. Still recovering, week 5. Getting better every day. If I could rate him 100 I would.

Kathy N.

John C.

Caring and understanding with excellent clinical skills and very helpful staff.

John C.

Laura E.

Dr. Nanson is a very knowledgeable, attentive, and professional surgeon who concerns himself with the possibilities to improve an ailing knee. He listens intently, and, responds the same way to the importance of the issue at hand. He replaced one knee in the past with great success. I trust him completely as a surgeon who knows how to be considerate and respectful of his patient.

Laura E.

Barbara B.

Thank you for all the support from you and your entire staff on this journey called Total Knee. My experience was informed and supported through each process. The outcome of this surgery was more than I expected and I am looking forward to using this new knee. Thank you very much. See you next summer for the second total knee.

Barbara B.

Linda S.

Dr. Nanson is an amazing doctor. He is very easy to talk with and answer all your questions. I have referred so many friends and family members to him and everyone thinks he is the best!

Linda S.

Anthony C.

Straight forward diagnosis, friendly and humorous. While I didn’t like the news I thoroughly enjoyed the delivery.

Anthony C.

Brad H.

Dr. Nanson performed hip replacement surgery on me earlier this year. Everything about that experience was exceptional and I am happy to report that hip is performing perfectly. I am scheduled for the other hip in the fall and am confident I will have a similar outcome. His reputation is exemplary and well deserved. And his patient skills give you comfort and confidence your health issue is in highly professional and competent care. His support staff and surgical facility mirror his striving for excellence. Highest possible recommendation.

Brad H.

Steve W.

Dr. Nanson is not only a great orthopedic surgeon, but he cares about his patients. This shows in the time he has spent with me over the course of my knee replacement surgeries. He's a great listener. He has answered all my questions which enhances my confidence in the outcomes of my health care. He also has a good sense of humor!

Steve W.

Jeff B.

Fast service and very good feedback on the new hip and it’s mobility.

Jeff B.

Joseph F.

Always feel good when I leave Dr. Nanson's visit that I have received a thorough diagnosis and that I am good to hands with my future treatment.

Joseph F.

Bill W.

Best care of any doctor I have had. Honest and straight forward information.
Thanks

Bill W.

Shannon L.

Very helpful and efficient desk staff. Dr. Nanson was great! I look forward to my hip replacement surgery with full confidence I will get excellent results.

Shannon L.

Chauncey A.

First visit and an initial knee consultation only, so I haven’t had direct surgical results yet. But Dr. Nanson definitely earned my confidence, especially as he understands my needs to remain active with my knee, and had good common sense steps for me to take prior to any surgery. I expect to work with him from here on out for my knee issues.

Chauncey A.

Marvin M.

Wonderful surgeon. Terrific staff. I was very impressed with everything...

Marvin M.

Theodore B.

Simply one of the best ortho surgeons around!

Theodore B.

Kristy H.

Friendly, professional staff. Dr Nanson. is very approachable, knowledgeable and made me very comfortable with my decision to select ONW to perform my surgery.

Kristy H.

Maria B.

Dr. Nanson is personable insightful, and his clinical excellence and expertise are outstanding.
The team and support staff are welcoming, warm and compassionate.

Maria B.

Annette Z.

Dr. Nanson answered all my concerns about my knee and my arthritis progression. When and if I require a total knee replacement I will definitely have him as my surgeon. He has done knee replacement surgery on several people I know as well as family members and all have done exceedingly well.

Annette Z.

Jean H.

Dr. Nanson and his team/staff are all top notch. Friendly, informational, great communication, and great skill. Every staff member I have encountered has always been kind and welcoming. They work well together and are there for the patient. I have already recommended this provider and team to several coworkers who also have had great outcomes. Thank you Dr. Nanson and staff for making a challenging part of life a lot easier! Keep up the good work. You are appreciated!

Jean H.

Beryl H.

Everyone was professional, nice welcoming atmosphere. Dr. Nanson was friendly, outgoing and thorough in answering my questions.

Beryl H.

Charlene M.

Dr. Nanson did a great job with my knee replacement. I was able to go on a planned trip without any problems. I didn't have any complications, the scar isn't even visible. The surgery itself was a day surgery which I greatly appreciated. Dr. Nanson was great about answering my questions as well.

Charlene M.

Jan M.

My experience was great! Having been in the customer service industry for much on my entire career, I truly value good quality care.
I would highly recommend Dr. Nanson’s and his team for their expertise, knowledge and one on one customer care.

Jan M.

Steve S.

Dr. Nanson was extremely helpful and very easy to work with. My surgery was scheduled quickly and I’m looking forward to it.

Steve S.

Linda H.

I really like the way Dr. Nanson shows the x-rays when talking with me. He explains and shows me what he see's. He takes time to know I understand what he's telling me. It was my pleasure to work with Dr Nanson and his staff.

Linda H.

Carl M.

Dr. Nanson listens to you, then provided insightful evaluations of your options. You know he is most interested in the best outcome for you and your situation. Highly recommended!!

Carl M.

Karen C.

For me I appreciate Dr. Nanson’s sense of humor! He is a great surgeon and has done one hip replacement and am needing the other side done. He is the only doctor I would let do it!

Karen C.

Ilje A.

Dr. Nanson is the surgeon to see for hips. His explanations are understandable and he’s to the point. Most importantly, his skillset is top notch. Excellent orthopedic surgeon. My surgery was flawless and Dr. Nanson and his team took excellent care of me!

The whole orthopedic team at OSI is experienced, competent, and helps educate and guide you each step of the way from pre-operative to recovery. That’s extremely important with surgery!

Thank you!

Ilje A.

Janeta H.

Dr. Nanson is an outstanding orthopedic doctor and person. He explains everything and takes time to answer my questions. He makes me feel important and cared about.
The office staff are all outstanding and caring. The office is immaculate and well cared for.

Janeta H.

Sandy E.

Everything about Dr. Nanson and his team is top-notch. From the surgery to the paperwork, there were no hiccups or hassles. My knee is great and am going back to get the other one done. Would highly recommend with no hesitation.

Sandy E.

Jeff B.

Addressed all of my concerns in a sensible and logical manner.

Jeff B.

Dwight R.

I have upmost confidence in Dr Nanson’s expertise and advice. He explains medical matters in concise and understandable way.

Dwight R.

Garald S.

Extremely satisfied with the results of my hip replacement. Highly recommended!!!

Garald S.

Johnie B.

Absolutely the best!!! Every part of my journey with Dr Nanson, Orthopedics Northwest and Meridian Park, was stellar care and I give them all 10’s across the board. I would recommend Dr Nanson and Orthopedic Northwest .

Johnie B.

Barb C.

Extremely friendly and very informative about my upcoming hip surgery...highly recommend.

Barb C.

Sylvia N.

I needed a second opinion for revision surgery that I have scheduled, and I was fortunate enough to be referred to Dr. Nanson. It was truly one of the best medical experiences I’ve ever had. It was clear that he had spoken to my surgeon, in Eugene, prior to my appointment. He took time to listen to my history, and my concerns. Dr Nanson explained every thing that I needed to know about my upcoming surgery. He answered all my questions, and took the time to be sure I was as informed as I could be
If I were looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Portland I would look no further. He’s a rock start in the operating room and a wonderful and caring physician.

Sylvia N.

Robert M.

Efficient and polite office staff. Dr. Nanson was thorough in his explanation of my problem and didn’t use (too many) big medical terms, so I understood what was going on in the context of my own experience.

Robert M.

Joy J.

Dr. Nanson is a fabulous Orthopedic Surgeon. He listens, is kind, ask questions and tells you the truth.
He will be doing a double knee replacement for me. My Husband and I trust him wholeheartedly. I would recommend him without a doubt if you need Orthopedic Surgeon.

Joy J.

Kit G.

Dr. Nanson is thoughtful, patient, listens, focused, and provides solid solutions.

Kit G.

Michael K.

After careful research of knee surgeons in the area, I selected Dr. Nanson. About 3 1/2 years ago, my right knee was replaced. I was able to return to playing pickleball and still play. Several players have commented how straight the scar is but more importantly I can move quickly around the court with no pain. Some players with a knee replacement have ugly scarring and did not follow through on rehab which is a mistake. Dr. Nanson is personable and a good listener. I recommend Dr. Nanson without reservation.

Michael K.

James L.

Excellent doctor. Great person to deal with. Would highly recommend him to anyone needing an orthopedic surgeon.

James L.

John F.

Dr. Nanson gets 100% approval for the knee surgery he did for me.

John F.

Susan P.

Pain and swelling improved in one day!
Thank you

Susan P.

Heather C.

Great facility and great doctor!

Heather C.

Stephen T.

This was my first visit, and Dr. Nanson and the staff there were professional, kind, and seemed genuinely interested in my situation. I came to him in order to familiarize him with my past knee surgeries in another state. He spent considerable time thoroughly reviewing my file of records and studied all the reports, x-rays, MRIs, etc from the surgeries I had in ATL years ago. Dr. Nanson explained everything and laid out a plan for the future. I could not be happier or more impressed with Dr. Nanson and am glad to offer my highest recommendation.

Stephen T.

Dave W.

Great experience. Appointments were always timely, and he explained things in simple terms that I could understand. Dr. Nanson found my problem quickly after another doctor could not. I highly recommend him.

Dave W.

Michael C.

Incredibly knowledgeable, experienced and professional. He is up to date on the latest devices and techniques. He leads a fantastic team that is upbeat, tuned in and checking on your status constantly. I was putting weight on my surgical leg less than 24-hours after the surgery thanks to the pre- and post-op training and directions.

Michael C.

John L.

I have found Christopher J. Nanson, MD outgoing, understanding, observant and pays attention to detail. His explanations are clear and easy to follow.

John L.

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Awards and Accomplishments

  • Patient Top Choice Award by US News_edited 12024 Portland Monthly Top Doctor