Physician Profile Page for Scott M. LaValva, MD

Dr. Scott LaValva is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee reconstruction and hip preservation. He offers expertise in minimally invasive total hip replacement through the direct anterior approach, computer-navigated and robotic-assisted total and partial knee replacement, and complex revision hip or knee replacement. His practice is centered on leveraging advanced surgical techniques and cutting-edge technology to enhance recovery, restore function, and deliver durable long-term outcomes. Dr. LaValva is dedicated to helping patients return to active, high-performing lifestyles after surgery.

Dr. LaValva earned his undergraduate degree from Franklin & Marshall College, graduating magna cum laude with a B.A. in biochemistry and molecular biology while competing as a varsity football player. He received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated 'Top of Class' and was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), where he was recognized for excellence in clinical care, professionalism, and teaching through receipt of the Jean C. McDaniel Award and the Weill Cornell Alumni Council Distinguished Housestaff Award.

During residency, Dr. LaValva traveled internationally to visit leading surgeons in Italy and Belgium, gaining specialized experience in direct anterior hip replacement, hip resurfacing, and complex revision knee reconstruction. He then completed a one-year fellowship at the University of Utah, where he received advanced subspecialty training in primary and revision hip and knee replacement, as well as hip preservation surgery, including periacetabular osteotomies (PAO).

Dr. LaValva has published numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and textbook chapters focused on hip and knee reconstruction. His research has been presented at both national and international conferences. His specific academic interests include identifying the optimal candidates for hip replacement versus hip preservation surgery, as well as advancing the understanding of surgical techniques and outcomes in younger patients requiring hip replacement due to sequelae of childhood hip disorders.

Minimally invasive hip and knee replacement
Direct anterior approach for hip replacement
Robotic and computer-assisted joint replacement
Partial knee replacement
Complex revision hip replacement
Complex revision knee replacement
Hip resurfacing
Hip dysplasia Periacetabular osteotomy Proximal femoral osteotomy

Total Hip Replacement
Direct Anterior Approach Hip Replacement
Revision Hip Replacement
Hip Resurfacing
Computer Assisted Total Hip Replacement
Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO)
Proximal femoral osteotomy

Total Knee Replacement
Partial Knee Replacement (Unicompartmental)
Revision Knee Replacement
Robotic Partial Knee Replacement
Computer-Assisted Total Knee Replacement
Robotic Total Knee Replacement