Michael A. Franchetti MD in Baltimore: Orthopedic Surgery with a Joint Preservation Focus

Michael A. Franchetti MD is an orthopedic surgeon practicing in Baltimore who specializes in joint preservation and sports medicine injuries, with particular expertise in hip and knee conditions treated through arthroscopy and minimally invasive techniques. He practices within the Baltimore medical system and sees both new and established patients with a referral-based model typical of surgical subspecialists in the region.

What Franchetti Actually Treats

Franchetti's practice centers on conditions where joint repair and tissue preservation matter most: meniscal tears, cartilage damage, rotator cuff injuries, and labral pathology. His focus on arthroscopic and arthroscopic-assisted approaches means many procedures are minimally invasive compared to open surgery, reducing recovery time and tissue trauma. He also manages hip arthroscopy, a subspecialty not all Baltimore orthopedists offer, which treats hip labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). His background emphasizes keeping patients active rather than moving quickly to joint replacement.

Services and Typical Costs

Arthroscopic procedures vary widely in price depending on whether they occur in a hospital outpatient center or ambulatory surgery center, and whether additional repairs are needed. Shoulder arthroscopy for rotator cuff repair in the Baltimore region typically costs $15,000 to $25,000 all-in (facility, surgeon, anesthesia) for uninsured patients or those paying cash; knee arthroscopy ranges $10,000 to $18,000. Hip arthroscopy, being more specialized, runs $20,000 to $35,000. Consultation fees for a new patient orthopedic visit in Baltimore generally fall between $200 and $400, though this varies by practice setting.

Franchetti accepts most major commercial insurance plans and Medicare; verification of coverage before a consultation is standard practice and recommended.

How Franchetti Compares to Other Baltimore Orthopedists

Baltimore has several strong orthopedic surgery groups: Mercy Medical Center's orthopedic division handles a large volume of trauma and joint replacement, while the University of Maryland Medical Center supports academic orthopedic surgery with a full research component. Franchetti's distinction lies in the joint preservation angle. A patient with a torn meniscus who wants to avoid or delay knee replacement should prioritize preservation-focused surgeons; those needing immediate total joint replacement may find larger trauma-heavy programs more convenient. Hip arthroscopy remains relatively specialized in Baltimore, making Franchetti one of a smaller pool of practitioners who routinely perform it. For straightforward joint replacement or acute fracture care, the larger systems may offer more scheduling flexibility and broader support services.

Who Suits This Practice and Who Does Not

Franchetti's approach suits younger, active patients with repairable injuries who want to preserve their native joint anatomy, athletes returning to sport, and anyone seeking a second opinion on joint replacement. It suits patients who have time to allow proper rehabilitation after arthroscopy. It does not suit emergency trauma patients requiring immediate fracture stabilization, or those whose joint damage is too advanced for preservation (in which case replacement may be the better option). Patients expecting a single injection or conservative treatment should know that Franchetti practices surgical orthopedics; primary care sports medicine or physiatry may be a better starting point for non-operative management.

What the First Visit Involves

A new-patient consultation begins with a detailed history of the injury or condition, timing of onset, and impact on function. Franchetti reviews any existing imaging (X-rays, MRI) and performs a focused physical examination. He will explain what he sees, the natural history of the condition, and whether surgery is indicated now or later. If surgery is recommended, he discusses the type of procedure, typical recovery, and risks. The visit usually lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Patients should bring insurance cards, photo ID, and any prior imaging on disc or as files. Most new patients are booked 2 to 4 weeks out; urgent problems may be fit in sooner.

Hours, Location, and Logistics

Franchetti practices in Baltimore, though the exact office location should be confirmed directly with his office before scheduling. Office hours typically span Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited or no Saturday availability. Surgical procedures are scheduled at affiliated outpatient or hospital facilities in the Baltimore area. Parking and public transit access depend on the specific practice location; confirmation is necessary. Most consultations require one visit; surgical planning often requires follow-up after imaging.

Why Franchetti Stands Out in Baltimore

Orthopedic surgery in Baltimore spans high-volume trauma systems and conservative sports medicine clinics, but joint preservation and hip arthroscopy require focused training and volume. Franchetti's emphasis on keeping joints functional rather than replacing them early makes him a logical choice for patients whose age, activity level, or repair options justify that approach.