Dr. Fontes completed medical school with highest honors at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis (the third-ranked medical school in the U.S. in 2009). He then completed an orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of California, San Francisco.

Following residency, he traveled to Europe to study with some of the world experts in trauma and shoulder surgery. An additional fellowship in Italy with Dr. Maurizio Catagni, a recognized pioneer in Ilizarov surgery, added significant experience with this powerful technique.

After his fellowship, Dr. Fontes returned to UCSF as an assistant professor for three years. While there, he co-managed the foot and ankle service at the university, developing quite an expertise in complex reconstructions of the foot and ankle. He also directed the shoulder service at San Francisco General Hospital and is particularly interested in arthroscopy of the shoulder.

Dr. Fontes specializes in diseases of the shoulder, knee, and hip as well as problem fractures such as nonunion and malunions. Dr. Fontes is the first surgeon in Las Vegas/Henderson to perform direct anterior hip replacement and was one of the first to perform arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Furthermore, he is actively involved in the development and production of several orthopaedic instruments and technologies and has been a guest speaker and instructor for several companies.

Dr. Fontes specializes in Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement and outpatient total shoulder replacement, offering minimally invasive solutions to help patients regain mobility and live pain-free. Using innovative technology, Dr. Fontes delivers precise, customized joint replacement procedures designed for faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.

Mako Robotic Technology enhances precision and accuracy in knee replacement surgery by using advanced imaging and real-time feedback. This allows Dr. Fontes to tailor the procedure to the patient’s unique anatomy, ensuring optimal implant placement and improved function.

• Personalized surgical planning based on the patient’s unique knee structure
• Minimally invasive approach for reduced pain and faster recovery
• Improved implant positioning for better long-term joint function
• Faster return to daily activities compared to traditional knee replacement

For patients needing a total shoulder replacement, Dr. Fontes offers an outpatient option, allowing eligible patients to return home the same day. This minimally invasive approach helps reduce hospital stays, lowers the risk of complications, and promotes a quicker, more comfortable recovery.

• Same-day discharge for eligible patients
• Minimized soft tissue disruption for faster healing
• Restored shoulder mobility and strength
• Enhanced post-surgical comfort and recovery experience

Available to see patients in Las Vegas and Henderson at our Central, Northwest, Southwest, and Henderson offices, Dr. Fontes is dedicated to providing high-quality orthopaedic care.