Derek Purcell, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon - Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Specialist

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4.9
Based on 873 reviews.
Specializing in Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Arthroscopic, Cartilage Restoration & Total Shoulder Replacement
Fax: 719-623-1051
Derek Purcell

Dr. Derek Purcell is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with advanced specialization in sports medicine, shoulder, and knee surgery. His expertise includes arthroscopic techniques for the knee and shoulder, complex ligament reconstructions, cartilage restoration procedures, and both shoulder and knee joint replacements.

Dr. Purcell graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Alabama and earned his medical degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine. He completed both his orthopedic surgery residency and a fellowship in Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery at the prestigious Barnes-Jewish Hospital/Washington University in St. Louis.

While in fellowship, Dr. Purcell served as an assistant team physician for multiple professional sports teams, including the St. Louis Rams (NFL), St. Louis Blues (NHL), and St. Louis Cardinals (MLB). He has participated in the NFL Combine and worked with the Cardinals’ spring training team in Florida. He is a former member of the NFL Team Physicians Society.

Now practicing in Colorado Springs, Dr. Purcell continues his commitment to athlete care as a Team Physician for Colorado College Athletics. He also supports several area high schools, including Vista Ridge, Colorado Springs Christian School, and Cheyenne Mountain. He is an active member of the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Specialties and Treatments

Why Choose Dr. Derek Purcell

Whether you’re a competitive athlete or simply want to return to an active lifestyle, Dr. Derek Purcell provides expert care to help you recover with confidence. His experience with elite athletes and advanced surgical techniques ensures patients receive the highest level of orthopedic treatment.

Education

  • Fellowship: Sports Medicine & Shoulder Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
  • Residency: Orthopedic Surgery, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO
  • Medical School: MD: University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
  • Undergraduate School: BS: Microbiology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL

Board Certifications

  • American Board of Orthopedic Surgery

Team Physician

  • 2009 – Present: Colorado College
  • 2009 – Present: Vista Ridge High School, Cheyenne Mountain High School, and Colorado Springs Christian School

Memberships & Organizations

  • Fellow, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
  • Candidate Member, American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine
  • El Paso County Medical Society Member
  • Colorado Medical Society Member

Matthew Albrecht, PA-C

Physician Assistant

As a certified physician assistant, Matt works alongside Dr. Derek Purcell in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic and sports medicine conditions. He assists in the operating room with upper extremity and knee surgery, including both arthroscopy and joint replacement procedures. Matt received his PA certification after graduating with a Masters in Health Science from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania. Prior to joining the CCOE team, Matt worked at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD with the shoulder, trauma, and sports medicine services.

Dr. Purcell's Reviews

William M.
Very pleased with the professionalism of Dr. Purcell.
Cate R.
Provides excellent care
KBS B.
I had work done by Colorado Center of Orthopedic Excellence prior to this visit.
Dr Purcell was very informative, he explained all about what was going on with my knee & what all my options were. Then I asked what he would do if it was his knee? Without hesitation he said he would try the gel shot, saying the knee replacement should be a last resort! I almost expected being a surgeon for him to say the surgery, I really appreciate the professionalism & his honesty!
Thank you to everyone & Colorado Center of Orthopedic Excellence you guys are great!
Deborah S.
Doctor Purcell saw me in a timely manner, explained everything I needed to understand, it was an excellent experience! He is great, glad he is my doctor!!
phillip B.
Dr Purcell was prompt , efficient, and correct in diagnosing and treating my knee issue! I recommend him to you for treatment of any extremity issue!
Daniel W.
Good information and really knowledgeable and out my knee.
Lisa K.
Both my husband and I have had shoulder surgery with Dr. Purcell and have great outcomes. He is very professional and talented surgically. We appreciate how he has helped us both!
Jose V.
This was my second time on the surgeons table with my surgeon being Derek Purcell, he is an amazing surgeon very efficient, when you go under he does what he has to do professionally and when you wake up, with postop pain, they take every precautions to manage your pain. He is a great surgeon referring to Dr. Purcell, and his staff from the bottom on up, They’re awesome and I highly recommend them. I had two shoulder replacements and they broke th went smooth. I’m very happy with Dr. Purcell and his staff. And aspecial thanks to his assistant Matt Aldraucht an amazing person. Thank you
Mary Jane C.
Dr Purcell and is staff were wonderful, supportive and easily accessible during the process of my ACL reconstruction surgery. Excellent, skilled services. Highly recommend!
Bill S.
Dr. B. Purcell, MD, and his team deserve every bit of praise that can possibly be given. Words are not enough to express the confidence that I have in his professional preparedness, execution, and follow-up. But one word says it all: "Trust". I have complete confidence that the excellence in care and attention to detail will continue to meet my every need during these final stages of recovery from my recent left knee replacement. In summary, his demonstrated track record established over the last 14 months through two knee replacements has given me every reason to highly recommend Dr. Purcell.
Brian C.
Dr Purcell is the best! Such an efficient & friendly staff. I recommend Dr Purcell and OCC to everyone I know!
Judy R.
I have been a patient for many years. I have always found the office to be run very efficiently. The wait time is minimal and the staff very friendly. Dr. Purcell is an excellent physician who takes the time to answer your questions and he explains treatment plans throughly. Dr. Purcell repaired my rotator cuff and I had a positive outcome. I highly recommend this practice and especially Dr. Purcell.
Braxton B.
Dr. Purcell is clearly the surgeon anyone would want to work with. Clearly intelligent, concise, deliberate. I look forward to working with him to aid in my knee recovery.

Addendum: pre-op CNAs and nurses and PACU nurses are amazing. I can’t remember the nurse that had me in PACU- but the woman deserves a pay raise and all the respect in the world.
george C.
Doc Purcell is the best! 3rd rodeo.....4 years ago Doc performed TKR on both knees... working perfectly... this time around Rotator Cuff repair... just beginning second week post op... doing great! Completely repaired!
J R O.
Dr Purcell is very professional. He listens and addresses questions. He is knowledgeable and makes good recommendations. I highly recommend him for orthopaedic care.
Suzanne C.
I feel my health and care from Dr. Purcell was excellent. He explains the procedures and outcomes very thoroughly. He also answers all questions without hesitation. His entire team is beyond professional and caring.
Jann B.
Great experience. Dr Purcell did my tkr and my recovery has been well above average. He has been responsive and interested in my recovery. Highly recommend him.
Sherry L.
My experience excellent. Everyone was professional. They explained what would be happening with the surgery. I have not been able to walk without constant pain in my knee in years until I got this surgery. I thank Dr. Purcell and his team.
Gary V.
Very professional and knowledgeable and has great bedside manner. Has a wonder staff. I highly recommend DR. Purcell for all your orthopedic needs.
Kathy M.
Great doctor
Mark B.
Dr Purcell and his office staff are very professional and punctual. I arrived 15 minutes early and I actually got in before my appointment time. Dr. Purcell has done a knee replacement for me which is perfect and I am now seeing him for a shoulder replacement which I know he will do an excellent job and my shoulder will be just like new again. I would highly recommend Dr. Purcell and his staff for all of your medical needs.
Denise W.
I can say, this Dr. first time seeing him, i went in his office, he cares, pays attention, listens, gives all options. I went there in so much pain, came out from his office with no pain. Great Dr.
Highly recommend this Dr.
He is my Dr.
Patricia L.
Everyone at this office is friendly and professional. Would highly recommend for orthopedic surgery.
Linda D.
I have had 5 surgeries by Dr Purcell and trust him completely. Top notch care.
Roxi F.
So far I'm pleased with my treatment. I have just had a consultation. Dr. Purcell was straight forward to the point and has got me on track for a right knee replacement. I will try to follow up I hope to give him a 5 star rating it is to soon in my process to know yet. I was impressed with the meeting.
Jay K.
Dr. Purcell is professional, knowledgeable, caring, and attentive. I highly recommend him and his staff. They really care. I had a devastating injury with a complex surgery. Dr. Purcell has done an amazing job helping me get to a place of healing and recovery.
Karen F.
I was very impressed with Dr. Purcell's professionalism and attention to my reason to see him. He was polite, personable, and down to earth which immediately put me at ease in knowing this was a doctor who would work with me in making the best decision in going forward with a treatment plan.
Scott J.
Time you get there and the time you are dismissed. You are
Tomas G.
Great experience made me feel comfortable
James S.
Dr Purcell did a total knee replacement on my left leg . Everything went just as promised and the healing process was fast and smooth . Highly recommend him and his Staff !!
rita N.
Went to my first appointment with Dr. Purcell. As I was told , he was very through..explained the MRI results very clear for us to understand. Gave us all the possible treatments and was very easy to talk to, very clear. Didn’t feel rushed ..I feel I can trust him with my treatment. I am so thankful I found him.
Daniel S.
Dr Purcell and his team are consummate professionals. You can't get any better orthopedic support. Highly recommend.
Mary Jean M.
Dr. Purcell was punctual, thorough, and had a great bedside manner. Highly recommend.
David R.
Dr.Purcell replaced both knees left knee most recently, right knee feels great after 10 months, my son told me he was a great surgeon and he was right, I'm glad I chose Dr. Purcell to do the surgeries
Shawn V.
Dr. Purcell is awesome ! He is kind and actually cares about you. My knee is so much better.
Lori V.
Excellent service all the way around. My surgery TNP has gone better than I could ever expected. Katie, Matt, are always there with answer's with pain meds, pt. Dr. Purcell did a excellent job. Would highly recommend this practice.
Mike A.
Was a very pleasant visit.
The staff is very professional
Best place iwent for surgerys
Jeff L.
Dr. Purcell was very concise and straight forward. And I would expect I will be getting the same level of care I received from my experience with Dr. Kobayashi from my visit with Dr. Purcell. I was very pleased.
Dave B.
Dr. Purcell has given me excellent care and advice in the 16 months he has been treating my arthritic shoulder.

Now he has performed a Reverse Total Shoulder Anthroplasty (Total Shoulder Replacement). Operation went well and pain is slight with Tylenol. He continues to provide excellent follow-up care. Now it I can take care of it myself.

It has now been a month since the operation and the shoulder is doing great. I’m out of the sling and Dr. Purcell says the shoulder looks great on x-rays. No pain. I’m really pleased with Dr. Purcell’s care, both during the operation and following. I’m really happy I chose Dr. Purcell.

Another month has gone by and Dr. Purcell says the shoulder is doing great. Physical Therapy is getting it loosened up well and Dr. Purcell says I’m no longer limited to lifting 1 lb on my right arm - I can lift 5 lb now. Still no pain. Dr. Purcell did great work on replacing this shoulder.

It has now been 9 months since the shoulder replacement and all is well. Still no pain and the shoulder is stronger. Would be stronger still if I exercised it like I’m told to.

Now it’s been 11 months since surgery and all is well. Just had a checkup and got OK to go for 2 years before next checkup. Really happy with the job Dr. Purcell did and his follow-up.
Jody B.
He came highly recommended and I can see why. He took the to time to explain my MRI and treatment plan. He listened too!
B
Carolyn H.
I am in the beginning process of getting a knee replacement. Dr Purcell was very thorough in explaining the procedure and what I should expect. Marcus was also very helpful and answered any additional questions. I look forward to a positive surgical experience.
The surgery experience was exceptional - Dr Purcell's process is geared to patient safety and comfort. My recovery has been exceptional. OCC is a wonderful medical organization.

Dr. Purcell's Clinic Locations

CO Springs Briargate

2446 Research Pkwy, Ste 200
Colorado Springs
CO
80920