Our Physicians
Mark Barba, MD
Specializing in: Hip and Knee
Welcome to Rockford Orthopedic!
My name is Mark Barba and I would like to take this opportunity to tell you more about myself and how I became committed to healthcare. I am a subspecialized orthopedic surgeon with a practice in joint replacement and a special interest in replacements of the hip joint.
When I was growing up, I had a garage full of automotive tools and a father who patiently taught me how they worked. He was also very concerned that I properly cared for the tools and remained disciplined and organized. A place for everything and everything in its place was his lesson -- boring for a child, but a great foundation for a surgeon.
I always knew I wanted to be a doctor. I could not understand how a kid would want to be anything else. I needed stitches three times while growing up and loved every visit to the emergency room! In medical school I chose to focus on orthopedics; the instruments just felt natural in my hand, and no one had to tell me which way to tighten a screw.
I chose to further subspecialize in joint replacement because I have a hard time with failure and replacement of an arthritic joint is almost always a victory. I did not see this in any other aspect of medicine I studied. I love it even more now than ever. Joint replacement implants have evolved to provide amazing results. I especially focus on devices that now allow people to return to even higher levels of activity. Ask me about the Birmingham Hip and the Oxford Knee and I think you will be impressed with how far the science of joint replacement has progressed. No matter what the reason for your appointment, I look forward to our visit because it is people that are my motiviation. Otherwise, I would probably be working on cars.
Education and Training
- Undergraduate, Chicago University, 1985
- M.S. Degree, University of Illinois, 1986
- Medical Degree, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rockford, 1991
- Orthopedic Surgery Residency, Wayne State University, 1996
- Rush Joint Replacement and Research Fellowship, Chicago, Illinois, 1997
- Board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, 2000
- Fellow, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Assisted by:
Francie Kelso, PA-C
At Rockford Orthopedic, we utilize a team approach that allows for the highest quality service and treatment. An integral part of the team is Francie Kelso, PA-C. As a physician assistant (PA), Francie is an extension of my care and is highly trained to provide many office services as well as assist me in surgical procedures. From your first visit to the completion of your treatment you will be seen by me or Francie. We work together to offer a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan to return you quickly to a healthy, active lifestyle.
