James A Costanzo, M.D.

Where are you from originally, if not Delaware, what brought you here?

I am originally from northeastern Pennsylvania near the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area. I met my wife when I was in residency in Philadelphia. She grew up in North Wilmington and most of her family remains in this area. We decided to settle in Wilmington and now my family has joined us in this great area.

What is your favorite procedure to perform and why?

I love to perform anterior hip replacement. Most importantly, patients tend to have excellent outcomes and really regain function that they haven’t had in years. Also, from a surgical standpoint, the procedure is enjoyable because of the complex anatomy that must be appreciated and handled with care. 

Have you had any Orthopaedic injuries?

Luckily no! But I do have a few friends that could help me if I did!

What was your most memorable case?

Very early in my career, a patient came to me with a very severe problem after knee replacement done by another surgeon. This was quite a complex problem, and the patient was having difficulty, even with standing up. She also had several of medical risk factors which made her decision very difficult. We talked over the options for treatment, and she chose to procced with revision surgery. The operation was a success and several weeks later she was walking better than she had in years. She has become a lifelong patient of mine and I love when she comes in for a routine checkup.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to spend time with my wife, three boys and our dog. They are more than enough to keep me busy!

Did you play a sport? Favorite sports team?

I like to play basketball and to snowboard. My favorite football team is the Eagles. Go Birds! 

Favorite type of music?

Classic rock.

Is there a fun fact about you?

I love to work with my hands and to build. I have built large model railroads and love to work on projects at home. One of the reasons I became interested in orthopaedic surgery was the opportunity to help people while doing something I love…using my hands to fix problems with the musculoskeletal system.

Do you have pets?

Our family has a bichon-mini poodle named Charlie.

Favorite travel locations?

I will never pass up a trip to the beach!