Shoulder pain can make even simple things—sleeping, lifting a cup of coffee, reaching into a cabinet, or hugging your kids—feel frustrating or impossible. If conservative treatments like physical therapy, injections, and medications have failed, the next step is finding the right shoulder specialist. But how do you know who is truly the best shoulder surgeon in Omaha?
Is it based on Google ratings? Number of surgeries performed? Fellowship training? Hospital affiliation? Or the way patients feel cared for?
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to look for—and why so many patients in Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Bennington, Fremont, and Council Bluffs, Iowa trust Dr. Michael Del Core, fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon at MD West ONE and Methodist Hospital in Omaha.
What Makes a Shoulder Surgeon the “Best”?
Not all orthopedic surgeons specialize in the shoulder. Many treat hips, knees, fractures, and sports injuries. A true shoulder expert is someone who focuses specifically on shoulder surgery, has advanced training, performs these procedures regularly, and tracks outcomes.
Here’s what to look for:
- Fellowship Training in Shoulder & Elbow Surgery
- High surgical volume—especially in shoulder replacements and rotator cuff repairs
- Affiliation with a top regional hospital
- Use of minimally invasive and modern arthroscopic techniques
- Strong patient outcomes & satisfaction (real reviews, testimonials)
- Personalized care—not a “factory-style” surgical approach
- Clear communication and follow-up after surgery
Fellowship Training — Why It Matters
A general orthopedic residency covers the entire musculoskeletal system. A Shoulder & Elbow Fellowship is an additional year where a surgeon trains specifically in:
- Complex rotator cuff repairs
- Shoulder replacements (reverse and anatomic)
- Labral and instability surgery
- Biceps tendon surgery
- Revision or failed prior surgeries
Dr. Michael Del Core completed his fellowship training at the Cleveland Clinic, allowing him to focus his career on shoulder and elbow surgery.
Hospital Affiliation Matters — Especially for Outcomes
Patients should ask, “Where does the surgeon operate?”
Dr. Del Core performs shoulder surgery at:
- Methodist Hospital – Omaha, NE (high-level orthopedic care, advanced imaging, excellent nursing teams)
- MD West ONE Surgery Center for select outpatient procedures
A reputable hospital ensures:
- Lower infection rates
- Experienced anesthesia teams
- Specialized shoulder physical therapists
- Safer recovery and better results
Sidebar: Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Shoulder Surgeon
| Question | Why It Matters |
| Are you fellowship-trained in shoulder surgery? | Confirms specialist-level training |
| How many shoulder replacements/repairs do you perform yearly? | Volume = better outcomes |
| Do you perform both anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements? | Versatility = customized care |
| Do you track patient outcomes and success rates? | Shows commitment to quality |
| What is your philosophy on recovery and rehab? | Alignment with patient goals |
Modern Techniques Used by Dr. Del Core
- Arthroscopic (minimally invasive) rotator cuff repair
- Reverse & anatomic shoulder replacement with modern implants
- 3D CT patient specific planning
- Outpatient shoulder replacement (in select patients)
- Personalized rehab protocols in partnership with Methodist & Omaha PT facilities
Why Patients Across Omaha & Iowa Choose Dr. Del Core
- Fellowship-trained in Shoulder & Elbow Surgery
- Practices at MD West ONE + Methodist Hospital, trusted orthopedic institutions
- High-volume shoulder surgeon with focus on outcomes
- Minimally invasive, motion-preserving surgical techniques
- Conservative-first approach when possible
- Easy access from Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Council Bluffs & Fremont
- Personal involvement in patient follow-up—not just “see the PA”
Conditions Treated
- Rotator cuff tears
- Shoulder arthritis & bone-on-bone pain
- Labral tears & shoulder instability
- Biceps tendon tears
- Frozen shoulder, impingement, SLAP tears
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You don’t have to live with shoulder pain. Whether you’re an athlete, tradesman, teacher, grandparent, or simply tired of pain disrupting sleep—the right surgeon changes everything.
Schedule your consultation: 402-390-4111
Learn more: michaeldelcoremd.com
Offices serving: Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, Bennington, Blair, Council Bluffs, and Western Iowa
