Geoffrey S. Van Thiel, MD

Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel

Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel’s orthopedic practice focuses on minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgery of the hip, knee, and shoulder. He is widely considered a leading expert with over 70 publications and 80 international presentations. His practice focuses on compassionate cutting edge care with a relentless pursuit of improving outcomes and returning patients to an active lifestyle. 

Educational Background

Dr. Van Thiel attended UCLA Medical School (MD) and completed a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from the UCLA School of Business. He then made his way back to Chicago for training in orthopedic surgery at one of the top programs in the country at Rush University Medical Center. Under the guidance of some of the country’s leading sports medicine surgeons, he stayed at Rush to complete sub-specialty training in orthopedic sports medicine and hip arthroscopy. In fact, Dr. Van Thiel remains a faculty member at Rush for both research and education of new surgeons.

Research & Innovations

Dr. Van Thiel has a passionate interest in research and has collaborated with world-renowned surgeons on development projects in hip arthroscopy, cartilage restoration, knee ligament reconstruction, and shoulder arthroscopy. He continues to develop innovative techniques as a consultant for many top orthopedic device companies. Often invited to speak and train other surgeons in new techniques, Dr. Van Thiel maintains an active travel schedule as a member of the preeminent Multicenter Arthroscopic Study of the Hip (www.mashstudy.com), two editorial boards for major orthopedic journals, surgeon educator for AANA and AOSSM, as well as the chairman of the outcomes committee for the OrthoForum. 

Board Certified Orthopedic Care

Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel’s commitment to athletics and an active lifestyle is evident in both his personal belief that activity leads to better health, and his involvement with sports teams. While at Rush, Dr. Van Thiel was an assistant team physician for the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and Chicago White Sox (MLB). He is currently affiliated with the Chicago Blackhawks Medical Network and is the head team physician for the AHL Ice Hogs. He is also a team physician with the US National Soccer Teams.  

Dr. Van Thiel also believes that cutting edge care cannot be completed without compassion and  humility.

“Great results can only be achieved if a patient has a thorough understanding of their condition and the treatment options available to them.  In many cases, there are multiple right answers and the goal of effective care is for the patient to arrive at the option that will provide the best and quickest return to activity.”


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Patient Stories

Life changing patient stories

Read about Jack a multi-sport athlete, who suffered from a multi-ligament tear in his knee. Read about Abigail who fell and tore her Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). Life changing stories of patients healed by Dr. Geoffrey Van Thiel.

All Stories