Roles
Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery
Member, Frost Institute for Data Science and Computing
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Biography
Dr. Michael G. Rizzo, Jr., is an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and advanced minimally invasive procedures at the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute. He focuses on the treatment of sports-related injuries involving the hip, knee, and shoulder, with a particular expertise in arthroscopy and revision surgeries.
Dr. Rizzo’s education and training are rooted in some of the world’s leading institutions. He graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, completed medical school at Washington University in St. Louis, and then completed his Orthopaedic Surgery Internship and Residency at University of Miami and Jackson Memorial Hospital where he served as Administrative Chief Resident. He then pursued advanced fellowship training in complex Sports Medicine at the renowned Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. There, he worked with elite athletes, including members of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Rizzo is dedicated to advancing the field of orthopaedic surgery through research and innovation. He co-founded “Zwisch Me!,” a surgical resident autonomy tracking app now widely adopted across various medical disciplines. His research spans from augmented reality in surgical education to regenerative medicine and AI-driven medical systems.
Treatment Philosophy
Dr. Rizzo’s treatment philosophy is built on the foundation of personalized care, aiming to help patients "recover their game". He recognizes that each patient’s goals and challenges are unique, and he tailors treatment plans accordingly. By incorporating a multidisciplinary approach—including close collaboration with physical therapists—Dr. Rizzo ensures that patients receive a comprehensive evaluation and the most appropriate, state-of-the-art care.
His goal is to restore patients’ function and quality of life as quickly and safely as possible, with a strong emphasis on minimally invasive techniques to expedite recovery. Whether an athlete is striving to return to competitive sports or a recreational enthusiast wants to regain an active lifestyle, Dr. Rizzo’s priority is to help every individual get back to doing what they love with confidence. -
Education & Training
Education
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Honors & Awards
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Research Interests
Dr. Michael Rizzo’s research focuses on integrating cutting-edge technologies into orthopaedic care, including artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and biomotion tracking. He is developing predictive analytics models for personalized treatment plans and exploring innovative approaches like mesenchymal stem cells and regenerative medicine to enhance musculoskeletal health and performance.