Board certified in orthopedic surgery with a subspecialty certification in orthopedic sports medicine, Thomas E. Bates, MD, is an expert in adult joint reconstruction and sports medicine. A graduate of LaSalle University and Temple University School of Medicine, Dr. Bates completed his specialty training in adult reconstruction at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia.
Board certified in orthopedic surgery with a subspecialty certification in orthopedic sports medicine, Thomas E. Bates, MD, is an expert in adult joint reconstruction and sports medicine. A graduate of LaSalle University and Temple University School of Medicine, Dr. Bates completed his specialty training in adult reconstruction at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia.
The reviews listed below were collected independently of EmergeOrtho through rater8. Each review represents an authentic and verified patient experience.
Quick diagnosis & the steroid shot worked immediately! Let's hope it lasts!!
(1 week ago)
Jan-2026
Outstanding care so thankful for the progress of my surgery. Viola Cannon
(2 weeks ago)
Jan-2026
Great attitude and medical acumen.
(2 weeks ago)
Jan-2026
Dr. BATES IS NOT ONLY A TOP NOTCH SURGEON,BUT, A GREAT PERSON WITH A WONDERFUL BEDSIDE MANNER AND TRULY CARES FOR HIS PATIENTS. COULDN'T ASK FOR MORE AND THANKFUL FOR ALL HE DOES FOR OUR COMMUNITY. WHAT AN ASSET.
(2 weeks ago)
Jan-2026
Plesure meeting you. Knee is doing well with the Cortisone shot. It gave me much release. Finally slept through the night. Nade an apt with Dr. Frantz to discuss the iovera on Feb. 2nd. Will cancel the MRI after speaking with you.
(2 weeks ago)
Jan-2026
Very professional, explained options very well. Good attitude.
(3 weeks ago)
Jan-2026
He knows what he is talking about. Patient and speaks clearly.
(1 month ago)
Jan-2026
Excellent evaluation. Felt dr was seriously concerned about my welfare.
(1 month ago)
Jan-2026
Thanks!
(1 month ago)
Jan-2026
Concise and clear feedback on my conditions.
(1 month ago)
Dec-2025
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Coastal Region: Morehead City - Orthopedics
3714 Guardian Avenue Suite E Morehead City, NC 28557
Coastal Region: Swansboro - Orthopedics
775-2 West Corbett Avenue Swansboro, NC 28584
Board certified in orthopedic surgery with a subspecialty certification in orthopedic sports medicine, Thomas E. Bates, MD, is an expert in adult joint reconstruction and sports medicine.
A graduate of LaSalle University and Temple University School of Medicine, Dr. Bates completed his specialty training in adult reconstruction at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, and served in the U.S. Navy for eleven years, including a tour of MCAS Cherry Point as a wing and NASA flight surgeon. He also served overseas as the Musculoskeletal Department Head at U.S. Naval Hospital in Sigonella, Italy.
Dr. Bates is an active member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, and several other orthopedic surgeon and medical societies. He has served as the Medical Director for the Carolinas Center for Joint and Spine, and as the Orthopedic Champion for the Geriatric Fracture Program.
Dr. Bates has a broad range of orthopedic knowledge with a special interest in arthritis, joint replacement, arthroscopy, and sports medicine. His field of expertise includes arthroscopic surgical techniques in the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. He has a special interest in minimally invasive and joint-preserving techniques for both older and younger patients with arthritis, including MAKO robotic partial and total knee replacement and total hip replacement. He is dedicated to a team approach to patient care, involving therapists, primary care physicians and the patient’s family to ensure a speedy recovery and return to sports, work and recreational activities.
Dr. Thomas Bates, a skilled orthopedic and sports medicine surgeon in the coastal region, offers his expertise to patients in Morehead City and Swansboro.
Quick diagnosis & the steroid shot worked immediately! Let's hope it lasts!!
Outstanding care so thankful for the progress of my surgery. Viola Cannon
Great attitude and medical acumen.
Dr. BATES IS NOT ONLY A TOP NOTCH SURGEON,BUT, A GREAT PERSON WITH A WONDERFUL BEDSIDE MANNER AND TRULY CARES FOR HIS PATIENTS. COULDN'T ASK FOR MORE AND THANKFUL FOR ALL HE DOES FOR OUR COMMUNITY. WHAT AN ASSET.
Plesure meeting you. Knee is doing well with the Cortisone shot. It gave me much release. Finally slept through the night. Nade an apt with Dr. Frantz to discuss the iovera on Feb. 2nd. Will cancel the MRI after speaking with you.
Very professional, explained options very well. Good attitude.
He knows what he is talking about. Patient and speaks clearly.
Excellent evaluation. Felt dr was seriously concerned about my welfare.
Thanks!
Concise and clear feedback on my conditions.