Dr. Richard Puzzitiello is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with expertise in both arthroscopic and open treatment of complex shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee conditions, as well as sports-related injuries. He has a particular interest in joint preservation procedures, including cartilage restoration and hip arthroscopy for the management of labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). 

Dr. Puzzitiello also performs shoulder and knee replacements using advanced robotic and virtual navigation technologies.

He currently serves as a team physician for the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team, the Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB), and the Bradenton Marauders (MiLB). Drawing from his experience treating elite athletes, Dr. Puzzitiello provides the same level of compassionate, personalized care to all patients—whether professional athletes or weekend warriors. His team works collaboratively with physical therapists and athletic trainers to ensure a coordinated, comprehensive approach to postoperative recovery and long-term functional restoration.

Dr. Puzzitiello completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Tufts University in Boston, where he served as chief resident at the renowned New England Baptist Hospital. He went on to complete a fellowship in sports medicine surgery at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, where he also served as assistant team physician for the Utah Jazz (NBA), Utah Mammoth (NHL), and the University of Utah football team.

An accomplished researcher, Dr. Puzzitiello has authored over 100 scientific publications in high-impact, peer-reviewed orthopedic journals. His work has been presented at national and international conferences, and he has received multiple awards for his contributions to the field.

In his spare time, Dr. Puzzitiello enjoys traveling for downhill and backcountry skiing, spending quality time with his wife and children, exercising, and cheering on his hometown Cleveland sports teams.